BRIGANTINE, N.J. — As temperatures drop and water conditions cool, New Jersey’s Marine Mammal Stranding Center (MMSC) is warning residents about an increase in sea turtle strandings along the state’s beaches. The phenomenon, known as “cold-stunning,” leaves sea turtles immobile and at risk of death due to prolonged exposure to cold water.
The MMSC, along with Sea Turtle Recovery (STR), urges beachgoers to remain vigilant during their holiday outings. “Cold-stunning can make it very difficult to tell if a sea turtle is alive or dead, so please STILL CALL even if you think the animal is deceased,” the center advised.
The public is encouraged to save the MMSC 24-hour hotline (609-266-0538) and the STR hotline (609-667-4076) on their phones to report any sightings of sea turtles in distress. Officials caution against attempting to warm up a turtle, as this could harm the animal further. Instead, they advise waiting for instructions after contacting one of the two authorized agencies.
“Every call can save a life,” the MMSC said in a statement, emphasizing the importance of quick action to ensure these endangered animals receive appropriate medical care.