ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — Conservation groups are urging the public to remain vigilant for sea turtles in distress as plummeting water temperatures along the Jersey Shore threaten the survival of these marine reptiles. Officials say the danger of cold-stunning, a life-threatening condition that immobilizes sea turtles and disrupts their bodily functions, peaks during this time of year when ocean temperatures drop below 55 degrees.
Cold-stunned turtles may appear lifeless, stranded on beaches or floating immobile in the water, but experts caution against assuming they are dead. “Cold-stunning can make it very difficult to tell if a sea turtle is alive or dead, so please still call even if you think the animal is deceased,” according to guidance from local wildlife agencies.
Two organizations, the Marine Mammal Stranding Center (MMSC) and Sea Turtle Recovery (STR), have issued a 24-hour hotline to report sightings and coordinate rescue efforts. Residents are urged to call MMSC at 609-266-0538 or STR at 609-667-4076 to seek immediate assistance for distressed turtles. Boaters without cell service are advised to use VHF channel 16 to contact the U.S. Coast Guard.
Officials stress that the public should not attempt to handle stranded turtles, as improper intervention could worsen their condition. “Do not try to warm the turtle, move it, or disentangle it,” the advisory noted, urging callers to wait for professional responders to provide guidance.
Conservationists hope public awareness will lead to more timely rescues, increasing the chances of survival for these endangered animals.
As cold weather sweeps across the region, quick action by locals could make the difference between life and death for sea turtles facing the deadly effects of cold-stunning.