INDIAN RIVER BAY, Del. - The Marine Education, Research & Rehabilitation Institute is asking boaters to remain alert after a loggerhead sea turtle was reported in distress Saturday afternoon in Indian River Bay.
According to MERR, Delaware Natural Resources Police transported responders to the site of the reported sighting, but despite an extensive search, the turtle could not be relocated. The animal was observed surfacing rapidly for only a few seconds at a time and appeared to be struggling.
MERR is urging anyone who spots the turtle to immediately call 302-228-5029 and, if possible, remain in the area until trained personnel arrive.
During the search, responders used a 3-D depth finder to scan the water column and bottom. The turtle was last observed in about 12 feet of water, but was not found again. Based on the sonar data, MERR believes the animal was free-swimming and not stationary.
MERR emphasized that the safe disentanglement of a large sea turtle requires specialized equipment and trained personnel to avoid injury to both the turtle and rescuers. If entangled, the turtle may also suffer from wounds that require veterinary treatment and rehabilitation.