Turtles on the roadway

This year, we’ve treated about 50 turtles, many of which were struck by vehicles. The resulting injuries, as you might expect, are massive and complex. Common among the resulting injuries are cracked and broken shells. Many people don’t appreciate that a turtle shell is living tissue not an inanimate appendage. Over the decades, our rehabbers have honed some innovative techniques to stabilize and reattach splintered shells. Once set, shells can take months to heal. During that time, we provide the patient with supportive care and a nurturing, low-stress environment.

Below, a recent release (snapping turtle) recedes into the landscape. This turtle is a case in point. The remnants of the turtle’s shell injury are nearly undetectable (left rear). This will be the last release of the season. Turtles hibernate over the winter. This snapper has just enough time to get its bearings and find a good spot to sleep through the winter.

Avian Influenza Update

It’s already August. We are going strong.

We’ve tested each at-risk patient since the beginning of this thing and adhered stringently to our biosecurity protocols. Every single admission, to-date, tested negative for avian flu. Some other centers in the state have closed to waterfowl and raptor admissions, so we’ve experienced an increased demand.

Take a look.

Patient 0257 Release

On April 2nd, a kind neighbor brought in an American Kestrel that had been hit by a car.

The Kestrel was treated for a fracture at its wrist and head trauma. After a 2 month recovery, the bird was successfully released.

Kestrels are North America’s smallest falcon. For more information on kestrels, click here.

Snapping Turtle - Long road to recovery and freedom

This snapping turtle was in our care for 8 long months. It was struck by a car by the banks of the Schuylkill river. Its shell was severed by the impact. After carefully fusing the sections of shell, the long, slow recovery began. But, snapping turtles hibernate during the winter. So, we provided room and board until the weather permitted a safe release.

For more information of snapping turtles click here.

 

Thank You to our Partners