A loggerhead sea turtle named Pennywise, weighing 302 pounds, was recently rescued after being struck by a boat off Florida’s Atlantic coast. On May 25, 2025, Pennywise arrived at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach, where the veterinary team faced the challenge of her size, as their equipment could not accommodate her.
- Loggerhead turtle Pennywise injured by boat.
- Medical equipment too small for her size.
- CT scan successfully performed at equine clinic.
- Pennywise discovered to be carrying eggs.
- Injuries estimated to be a month old.
- Boaters urged to slow down during nesting season.
Initially, the team attempted to use a human CT scan machine at Jupiter Medical Center, but it was also too small. They ultimately transported Pennywise to the Palm Beach Equine Clinic, where a horse-sized scanner successfully captured her condition. To their surprise, the scans revealed that Pennywise is carrying eggs, raising hopes for her swift return to the wild.
This incident raises critical questions about the safety of marine life in busy waterways. How can boaters better protect these endangered species? Increased awareness is essential, especially during nesting season. Key points include:
- Loggerhead turtles are endangered and vulnerable to boat strikes.
- Nesting season in Florida runs from March 1 to October 31.
- Boaters are urged to slow down in designated protection zones.
As Pennywise continues her recovery, it serves as a reminder for all of US to prioritize marine safety and conservation efforts. Will you take action to protect these magnificent creatures?
