The Marine Science Center in Ponce Inlet to release three sea turtles on April 27.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News 

The staff at the Marine Science Center in Ponce Inlet are giving three juvenile sea turtles a new lease on life when they are released back into the ocean at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 27, at the Beach Street ramp in Ponce Inlet, depending on weather and surf conditions.

According to a release, paid beach parking is available on the south side of the ramp, tide permitting, but viewers can also park without charge at the Marine Science Center located at 100 Lighthouse Drive, Ponce Inlet, and walk to the beach. Two rehabilitated turtles, Pizza Roll and Cosmic Brownie were stranded in Ormond Beach on February 18 and March 1, respectively. They were covered with barnacles and algae and suffered from lethargy, hypoglycemia, and dehydration. K’nex, the third turtle, was found struggling to submerge in the waters of Ponce Inlet on March 3.

All three sea turtles received diagnostic work, including bloodwork, radiographs, an ultrasound, and exams. They were given a healthy diet of proteins and vegetation and treated with fluid therapy, vitamin injections, and antibiotics.

After completing their rehabilitation, the Marine Science Center’s veterinarian cleared the turtles for release.

The Marine Science Center is open to the public allowing visitors to view the turtle hospital and explore a marine display area from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day but Monday. For more information, visit www.marinesciencecenter.com or call 386-304-5545.