70 Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles arrive in Gulfport

Did you know that turtles can fly? Well, not literally, but they did fly to MillionAir in Gulfport.

Each year, the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies and Mississippi Aquarium receive Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles from the New England area.

They’re flown here by volunteers with the Turtles Fly Too organization.

“One of our aquarists said it was the best day of the year.. turtle day!” said Alexa Delaune, Mississippi Aquarium vice president of veterinary services and research. “So, it’s like an early Christmas present with the 40 really special animals that we have the privilege of taking care of.”

These turtles are sent here to recover from being cold-stunned before being released into the much warmer Gulf of Mexico.

This program ensures the protection of the kemp’s ridley species.

“Being able to rehabilitate them, and hopefully release them, is helping to contribute to the species population overall. It’s giving them a second chance at survival,” said Theresa Madrigal, stranding coordinator for IMMS.

IMMS received 30 turtles and Mississippi Aquarium received 40.

Both institutions will work to get the turtles back to good health.

“You can imagine, as veterinarians and animal care specialists, we only want the best for animals, so, it’s very exciting to be able to help an endangered species like this,” said Dulaune.

These turtles will be released in waves roughly around March.