Sea Turtle Rescued from Cold Snap Released in Islamorada

Groundhog the turtle made a full recovery at The Turtle Hospital after being treated for cold stunning.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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A sea turtle named Groundhog has been released back into the wild in Islamorada, Florida, after being rescued and treated for cold stunning during a recent cold snap in the Florida Keys. Groundhog was taken to The Turtle Hospital in Marathon for treatment and has now made a full recovery, while seven other turtles are still recovering at the hospital.

Why it matters

Cold stunning can be a serious threat to sea turtles, causing them to become lethargic and unable to swim, putting them at risk of injury or death. The Turtle Hospital's efforts to rescue and rehabilitate these turtles help protect the local sea turtle population.

The details

Groundhog was rescued during the historic cold snap that hit the Florida Keys earlier this month. After being taken to The Turtle Hospital, the staff there provided treatment to help Groundhog recover from the effects of cold stunning. Now fully rehabilitated, Groundhog has been released back into the warm waters off Islamorada.

  • Groundhog was rescued during the cold snap that hit the Florida Keys earlier this month.
  • Groundhog has now been released back into the wild in Islamorada.

The players

The Turtle Hospital

A rehabilitation center in Marathon, Florida that specializes in treating and caring for injured or ill sea turtles.

Groundhog

The sea turtle that was rescued and treated for cold stunning at The Turtle Hospital before being released back into the wild.

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The takeaway

The successful rescue and rehabilitation of Groundhog highlights the important work done by organizations like The Turtle Hospital to protect vulnerable sea turtle populations, especially during extreme weather events that can threaten their wellbeing.