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Leucystic Hatchling
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Caretta caretta (loggerehead)
Stranding Location: On Local Beachs
Arrival Date: Summer 2008
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Thank you for your interest in the leucystic hatchling. It really does tug at one's heart. We are all concerned, not just with this one hatchling, but with the successful continuation of the species.
Every year there are genetic mutations that create these anomalies, but they are not well suited for survival and the perpetuation of these traits will weaken the species overall. Without the necessary pigment these individuals cannot camouflage in the sargassum and certainly look like pieces of flesh in the water. This actually attracts predators-- putting this turtle AND the normal healthy ones nearby at risk. Additionally, the lack of protective melanin in the ocean environment means that this turtle will be prone to UV sun damage, painful burning, and the development of cancer.
Maintaining them in captivity is a huge commitment, over 50 years of care and planning. It is easy to care for a hatchling, but where to keep the 300 pound adult?
Currently, there are dozens of "lifers", failed rehabilitation cases that cannot be returned to the wild due to their injuries. These turtles are also looking for permanent homes and very soon we will be faced with more turtles than spaces to keep them in --and some VERY hard decisions. Also, the educational value of keeping a genetic mutant is poor, as they do not accurately represent the species.
Lastly, decisions regarding the hatchlings are not arbitrary and are set out by Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission not the Loggerhead MarineLife Center.
Based on all of the reasons above the LMC is not permitted to keep a genetic mutation as an education specimen, and must release this hatchling along with the rest.
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