Cold-Stunning Flashcards
What is cold-stunning?
lethargic condition in sea turtles caused by exposure to relatively cold environmental temperatures.
What are the documented effects of cold stunning on sea turtles?
lethargy, anorexia, decreased mobility.
At what water temperature do turtles typically float to the surface during cold stunning?
10°C (50°F).
What temperature range can lead to death by cold stunning?
5-6°C (41-43°F) lower than normal.
Where has cold stunning in free-ranging sea turtles been observed?
United States and Europe.
What geographic features contribute to cold stunning?
relatively shallow, partially enclosed bays and lagoons that are prone to rapid temperature drops.
How is cold stunning classified?
acute and chronic categories.
What is an acute cold stunning event?
typically occurs in lower latitude temperature zones and lasts less than two weeks.
What is a chronic cold stunning event?
occurs annually in higher latitude temperature zones and can last longer than two weeks.
Which sea turtle species are commonly affected by chronic cold stunning?
Juvenile Kemp’s ridley turtles, juvenile green turtles, and subadult loggerhead turtles
How does the response differ for acute and chronic cold stunning events?
Medical management varies; acute events require quicker rehabilitation, while chronic ones may involve longer hospitalization.
What is the importance of transport methods during cold stunning rescues?
Proper transport methods are crucial to maintain temperature and reduce mortality during rescues.
What should be monitored during the triage examination?
Core body temperature, heart rate, respiratory rates, and oral cavity conditions
What is bradycardia in the context of cold-stunned turtles?
low heart rates, often as low as one beat per minute, in cold-stunned turtles.
How are turtles identified during rehabilitation?
Turtles are assigned individual identification numbers and marked on their carapaces and flippers.
What does the grading scale for cold-stunned turtles include?
Class I (active) to Class IV (moribund).
How does hydration status affect cold-stunned turtles?
Hydration status is assessed to determine the turtle’s overall health condition.
What can cause injuries in cold-stunned turtles?
line entanglement, shark bites, or vessel strikes.
Why is it challenging to maintain separation protocols during large-scale cold stunning events?
they become impractical during large-scale events.
What defines a shallow water event for cold-stunned turtles?
often found in shallow waters less than two meters deep.
What role do prevailing currents play in cold stunning rescues?
influence probability and location of turtle strandings.
How often do chronic cold stunning events occur?
annually, typically in late autumn.
Why are leatherback turtles less likely to be affected by cold stunning?
they can maintain their body temperature better in ambient water.
What is the significance of the Texas Cold Stunning Event videos linked in the text?
They document the rescue efforts and the conditions faced during the cold stunning event.
How does rapid warming affect cold-stunned turtles?
results in higher mortality rates among cold-stunned turtles.
What kind of examination is performed upon hospitalization of cold-stunned turtles?
A detailed medical record and examination of the turtle’s condition
What is the common respiratory pattern observed in severely cold-stunned turtles?
Severe bradypnea, with rates often recorded as low as one breath per minute.
How can oral cavities of cold-stunned turtles be affected?
may contain sand and show evidence of tissue damage or ulcerations.
What should be documented regarding a cold-stunned turtle’s body condition?
assessment of hydration status, nutritional status, and any observed bruising or injuries.
What happens to turtles classified as Class III-IV cold-stunned?
Class III-IV turtles typically experience severe physiological issues and require intensive medical management.
What is the goal of rescue transport teams for cold-stunned turtles?
to rescue and transport affected turtles while adhering to isolation protocols to protect unaffected turtles.
What factors contribute to understanding cold stunning events?
Geographic, oceanographic, and meteorologic conditions
