Myrtle, an ancient green sea turtle at the New England Aquarium in Boston, underwent a physical examination to check on her health at the age of around 95 years old. Despite her advanced age, Myrtle is in robust condition and is expected to stick around for many more years to come. She has become an iconic figure at the aquarium, attracting visitors of all ages who have enjoyed her presence for decades. Giving Myrtle a physical exam is no small feat and only happens twice per year due to the difficulties of managing a massive sea turtle like her.
During the physical examination, a team of veterinarians, vet techs, and aquarists work together to conduct various checks on Myrtle, including drawing blood, checking her flippers for range of motion, and ensuring her eyes, mouth, and nose are in working order. Following these checks, she receives an ultrasound, her weight is taken, and she is returned to the ocean tank where she lives. Despite her massive size and age, Myrtle is accustomed to human interaction and even enjoys having her shell scratched, as noted on the aquarium’s website.
Green sea turtles are the second-largest species of sea turtle and are found in tropical and subtropical oceans around the world. Unfortunately, they are listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature due to a decreasing population. Despite this, Myrtle seems to be thriving in her environment at the New England Aquarium, where she shares space with a pair of loggerhead sea turtles named Carolina and Retread. These two younger turtles also underwent physical examinations on the same day as Myrtle and were reported to be in good health as well.
Myrtle’s enduring presence at the aquarium has made her a beloved figure among visitors, with many families making it a tradition to visit her throughout the years. The impact she has had on multiple generations of visitors is considered something truly special by the staff at the aquarium. During the physical examination process, Myrtle is carefully shepherded into an underwater crate by divers before undergoing the various health checks. Despite the challenges involved in managing a large sea turtle like Myrtle, the team at the New England Aquarium ensures that she receives top-notch care.
The physical examination of Myrtle is a meticulous process that involves close coordination between the aquarium staff and veterinary team to ensure that her health is maintained. Myrtle’s ability to adapt to human interaction and the impact she has had on millions of visitors over the years has secured her a special place in the hearts of those who visit the New England Aquarium. With proper care and attention, Myrtle is expected to continue delighting visitors for many more years to come, making her an enduring symbol of the beauty and resilience of green sea turtles.
