Volunteers Rescue 161 Cold-Stunned Sea Turtles in Outer Banks Amid Freezing Waters

Volunteers on the Outer Banks pulled 161 sea turtles from frigid waters after freezing temperatures left them cold-stunned. The N.C. Aquarium in Manteo received 120 turtles in just one week when temperatures plummeted.

These reptiles now get treatment at the aquarium's Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation — the S.T.A.R. Center. Cold-stunning strikes when water gets too cold before turtles can swim to warmer areas like the Gulf Stream, said Aquarium spokeswoman Sallie Bowman, according to The News & Observer.

Stunned turtles suffer from something like hypothermia. They wash up on beaches and appear dead. This year's numbers look small compared to last season, when staff admitted 800 stunned turtles from December through March 2025.

The Network for Endangered Sea Turtles — N.E.S.T. — runs entirely on volunteers. They've gathered close to 200 turtles since Thanksgiving. People call a hotline, but most turtles get found during foot patrols. Searchers wade through mud, shallow water, and thick grass.

Green sea turtles get cold-stunned more than other species. Scientists call them "lawnmowers of the sea" because they eat grass and algae in warm, shallow water around Roanoke Sound. Kemp's Ridley turtles hunt crabs there, which puts both types at risk when temperatures drop fast.

Animal care staff bring the turtles inside and warm them up slowly. They provide food, fluids, antibiotics, and eye treatment, according to aquarium officials. Some turtles recover in weeks. Others need months.

A single turtle costs $300 to $500 to rehabilitate until it can pass swim tests and go back to the ocean. N.E.S.T. accepts donations to fund this work.

When turtles can swim and lift their heads out of water without trouble, they're ready. Staff place a numbered tag in the shoulder muscle. If rescuers find them again, they'll know the turtle's history.

The aquarium warns people not to move stunned turtles themselves. Instead, call the N.E.S.T hotline at 252-441-8622.