I Wonder… How Wonders of Wildlife Helps Save Sea Turtles?

Published January 1, 2025

As the sun set on December 21, 2024, team members at Wonders of Wildlife eagerly prepared to welcome the newest temporary residents — 20 critically ill sea turtles from New England. These vulnerable animals, victims of cold-stunning, arrived in need of expert care.

Now in its fifth year, WOW’s Sea Turtle Rescue Center is the only facility of its kind in the Midwest and has become a vital resource for the rescue and rehabilitation of sea turtles suffering from life-threatening conditions like pneumonia, hypothermia, and dehydration. To date, the center has successfully cared for more than 50 sea turtles, giving them a second chance at life.

During their stay at WOW, these turtles will receive round-the-clock care from a dedicated team of specialists. Once fully rehabilitated, they’ll be transported back to the ocean, where they will be released to continue their lives in the wild. This year, select turtles will be equipped with tracking devices, allowing scientists to collect valuable data and the public to monitor their movements through WOW’s website. This invaluable data will help researchers better understand cold-stunning patterns and the life cycles of these majestic creatures.

Your support makes this vital work possible. By becoming a member of Wonders of Wildlife, you help ensure the future of programs like the Sea Turtle Rescue Center and contribute to the preservation of wildlife for generations to come.

Follow the journey of these incredible sea turtles and learn more about WOW’s conservation efforts HERE!

Did You Know?

Kemp’s ridley sea turtles are the smallest sea turtles species in the world. In 2024, WOW received these amazing turtles for the first time in our five year rescue.

WOW is proud to partner with Turtles Fly Too. Their time and effort to transport turtles around the country is what makes the rehabilitation process possible.

Our round-the-clock care team is what leads to the success of these turtles. Next time you see a member of our life science steam, thank them for putting the wonder in Wonders of Wildlife!