PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — Hampton Roads residents aren’t the only ones who feel the effect of the cold weather — the sea creatures do as well.
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center said in a social media post that sea turtles can be stunned from the cold.
“Though sea turtles normally migrate south when winter approaches, water temperatures can drop suddenly in our area, leaving these turtles stunned and too incapacitated to survive long without aid,” the post says.
If you encounter a cold-stunned or other stranded sea turtle anywhere in Virginia, alive or otherwise, call the 24-hour Stranding Response hotline at 757-385-7575.
Individuals are advised not to try and warm the turtle, as doing so can be harmful or even fatal.
“If it is in the water, maintain a 50-yard distance, and provide Stranding Response the info they need,” the post says.
Continue to check WAVY.com for updates.