Endangered sea turtles return to gulf thanks to Clearwater Marine Aquarium

CLEARWATER, Fla. (BLOOM) — Two endangered green sea turtles, Challah and Gypsum, were returned to the Gulf of Mexico on Wednesday after months of care at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, officials said.

Challah, a juvenile turtle, was rescued from Redington Shores on Dec. 4 with injuries from a suspected shark attack. Despite significant damage to its shell, Challah was in good condition upon recovery, the aquarium said.

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After extensive rehabilitation, including specialized wound care and cold laser therapy, Challah’s injuries healed, leading to its release after clearance from aquarium veterinarians and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Gypsum, a subadult turtle found near south Anclote on Feb. 7, showed signs of extended debilitation, with its body covered in algae and barnacles. Initial examinations revealed gastrointestinal issues due to ingested fishing line, which Gypsum later expelled naturally.

Despite missing its right front flipper from a prior injury, Gypsum recovered fully and was also cleared for release.

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“We are thrilled to see Challah and Gypsum return to their natural habitat,” said Dr. Shelly Marquardt, CMA’s staff veterinarian. “Their successful rehabilitation underscores our staff’s commitment to marine life conservation.”

The release marks another success for the aquarium’s mission to rehabilitate and conserve marine wildlife. The public can visit and learn about other marine animals undergoing rehabilitation at CMA.

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