Rare Loggerhead Turtle Rescued Off Cape Cod Dies Despite Rehabilitation Efforts

A 350-pound loggerhead sea turtle rescued off the coast of Truro has died despite efforts to rehabilitate it, the New England Aquarium says.

The turtle was found stranded on a beach last week and taken to the aquarium's sea turtle hospital in Quincy. In a Facebook post, the aquarium said the rare occurrence was due to underlying health issues.

"The turtle arrived at the Aquarium’s sea turtle hospital minimally responsive and not breathing on his own," the aquarium said. "Aquarium veterinarians and biologists administered medications and replacement fluids to help stabilize the turtle, but did not expect him to make it through the night."

Though he remained alive for several days, "receiving expert care around the clock," the aquarium said he continued to deteriorate and died Tuesday.

"Necropsy results confirmed this turtle stranded after becoming too weak to survive. The turtle had been ill for weeks or even months and had reduced body fat, pneumonia, and possible abnormalities in several organs."

New England Aquarium is thanking the public for its support, and asking for donations in the turtle's honor to help its ongoing rehabilitation efforts at the sea turtle hospital.