Giant Sea Turtle Pennywise Receives Custom CT Scan After Boat Collision: A Surprising Discovery!
JUNO BEACH, Fla. – In a remarkable display of veterinary ingenuity and compassion, a 302-pound (137 kg) loggerhead sea turtle named Pennywise is recovering after a distressing encounter with a boat off Florida's Atlantic coast. The massive reptile arrived at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center needing urgent medical attention, prompting the facility to undertake a truly unique procedure: a custom-sized CT scan.
Loggerhead sea turtles, known for their large heads and powerful jaws, are a protected species, and collisions with boats are a significant threat to their survival. Pennywise’s injuries were concerning, necessitating a detailed assessment to determine the extent of the damage and guide her treatment plan. However, standard CT scanners are simply not designed to accommodate a turtle of this size.
“We’ve never scanned a turtle this large before,” explained Dr. Jessica McDiarmid, a veterinarian at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center. “We had to carefully position Pennywise and work closely with the radiology team to ensure we obtained clear, high-quality images.”
The team utilized a specialized technique, adjusting the scanner’s parameters and positioning to capture the entire turtle’s anatomy. The resulting images revealed a surprising discovery: a large, previously undetected fibropapilloma tumor. Fibropapillomas are benign tumors common in sea turtles, but they can significantly impact their health and ability to thrive.
“Finding the fibropapilloma was unexpected, but it’s crucial information for Pennywise’s care,” Dr. McDiarmid stated. “It allows us to tailor her treatment and provide the best possible chance for her recovery and eventual release back into the wild.”
Pennywise is currently receiving supportive care, including fluids, antibiotics, and nutritional support. The team is closely monitoring her condition and developing a plan to address the fibropapilloma. The Loggerhead Marinelife Center plays a vital role in the rehabilitation and release of injured sea turtles, and Pennywise’s case highlights the importance of their work and the dedication of the veterinary professionals involved.
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by sea turtles and the need for increased awareness and responsible boating practices. By being mindful of their surroundings and adhering to speed limits in designated sea turtle zones, boaters can help protect these magnificent creatures and ensure their survival for generations to come.
Follow Pennywise’s journey and learn more about the Loggerhead Marinelife Center’s conservation efforts on their website: [Insert Loggerhead Marinelife Center Website Here]