Sea Turtle Physical Examination: Part 2

Part of a unique series on sea turtle veterinary medicine and wildlife rehabilitation, this article explores many components of the sea turtle physical exam. Evaluation of the shell is discussed in both cheloniids and leatherbacks (Dermochelys coriacea) as well as assessment of the cardiopulomonary system, skin, long bones and joints, cloaca and tail. Evaluation of the coelom by inguinal palpation is described as well as measurement of body temperature. Specialized testing such as neurologic and in-water examinations are also described. Common physical examination findings like fibropapillomas in green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and epibiota in loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) are . . .


To continue you need to be a LafeberVet.com member. (Français), (Español)

Pour continuer, vous devez être un membre LafeberVet.com

Para continuar, debe ser miembro de LafeberVet.com

Already a LafeberVet Member?

Please Login

References

Chrisman CL, Walsh M, Meeks JC, et al. Neurologic examination of sea turtles. J Am Vet Med Assoc 211(8):1043-1047, 1997.

Frick MG, Pfaller JB. Sea turtle epibiosis. In: Lohmann KJ, Musick JA (eds). The Biology of Sea Turtles, Volume III (CRC Marine Biology Series). Boca Raton, FL:CRC; 2013:399-426.

Wyneken J. The Anatomy of Sea Turtles. US Department of Commmerce NOAA Technical Memorandum. NMFS-SEFSC-470, 1-172, 2001.

 

Further reading

Wibbels TR, Owens DW, Limpus CJ. Sexing juvenile sea turtles: is there an accurate and practical method? Chelonian Conservation and Biology 3:756–761, 2000.

Pease A, Blanvillain G, Rostal D, et al. Ultrasound imaging of the inguinal region of adult male loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). J Zoo Wildl Med 41(1):69-76, 2010.

To cite this page:

Norton T, Wyneken J. Sea turtle physical examination: Part 2. November 23, 2014. LafeberVet Web site. Available at https://lafeber.com/vet/sea-turtle-physical-examination-part-2/