In a determined effort to rescue cold-stunned sea turtles stranded on a beach in North Carolina, researchers found a total of 109 of these endangered creatures this week. However, heartbreaking news emerged that only 36 of the rescued turtles managed to survive, according to the N.C. State University Center for Marine Sciences and Technology.

Collaborating with the rescue operation, the center played a vital role in bringing the injured turtles to an aquarium and rehabilitation center for specialized care. Earlier in the month, research teams had already transported numerous cold-stunned turtles to rehab facilities located at Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Cold-stunning occurs when turtles are unable to swim or eat due to a drop in the water's temperature, which affects their body temperature. During the fall and winter months, the Gulf Stream causes a significant temperature decrease, rendering the turtles lethargic and hypothermic. Winds and tides can push them ashore onto Cape Lookout, prompting the National Park to urge visitors to report any stranded turtles they encounter.

In a Facebook post, the National Park emphasized that even though cold-stunned turtles might appear lifeless, they are often alive. It advised against trying to return them to the water and instead encouraged individuals to call the NC Sea Turtle Standing Network Hotline and provide their geographical coordinates for assistance.

More than 60 of the rescued turtles were taken to The North Carolina Aquarium after experiencing severe cold-stunning events. These turtles, belonging to the green, Kemp's ridley, and loggerhead varieties, were unable to swim due to their hypothermia-like response. The Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation (STAR) Center at the aquarium is now diligently caring for these creatures, providing them with gradual warming to reach their optimal body temperature. In addition, the turtles receive medication and treatment for any injuries they may have sustained.

Once the rescued turtles regain their ability to swim and exhibit normal behavior, they are cleared by a veterinarian for release back into the wild. Each turtle is tagged with a microchip and set free in areas where the temperature is as close to 70 degrees as possible, ensuring their safe return to their natural habitat.

To aid in their efforts, the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center has also taken in a significant number of cold-stunned turtles. With over 50 turtles previously admitted and nine successfully released, the center is currently housing 103 turtles as of Wednesday. In a plea for support, the center has requested assistance in obtaining supplies like syringes to administer vital fluids to the turtles. Furthermore, the center stressed the need for eye lube to keep the turtles' eyes moist while they are in low water or resting on wet towels until they regain their ability to swim.

The dedicated efforts of researchers, rehabilitation centers, and volunteers highlight the importance of rescuing and rehabilitating cold-stunned sea turtles, ensuring their survival in the face of freezing temperatures. Through their unwavering commitment, these organizations strive to protect and conserve the vulnerable sea turtle populations along the North Carolina coastline.