Sea turtles released, Virginia Aquarium prepared to help Gulf Oil Spill turtles

[depakid]

Twelve Kemp's ridley sea turtles were released at Cape Charles Beach and returned to the sea this week. All of the sea turtles were rescued last winter and have been recovering at aquariums since then. Two of the turtles spent their recovery at the Virginia Aquarium Marine Animal Care Center. The others were at the New England Aquarium.

The exciting release represented the rehabilitated sea turtles journey back to the wild. An audience gathered to watch them return home.

The aquarium's Stranding Response Team responds to stranding reports along the Virginia coastline. They rescue and rehabilitate live marine animals, collect data, support research and educate the public. Since its inception, the team has helped over 3,000 marine animals.

This week's release benefits more than these two sea turtles. It also created room for more sea turtles in need. The aquarium is equipped and prepared to help other stranded sea turtles or those in need of rehabilitation. Sea turtles affected by the Gulf Oil Spill are included and the aquarium is one standby to assist.

More: http://www.examiner.com/x-49535-Chesapeake-Animal-Welfare-Examiner~y2010m6d19-Sea-turtles-released-Virginia-Aquarium-prepared-to-help-Gulf-Oil-Spill-turtles