Ocean City Beach
Two Rescued Sea Turtles Released in Ocean City, Maryland
By Katie RuskeyJune 19, 20253 min read
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An East Coast Story
Aquarium staff transport the sea turtles towards the beach.
Mothman and Icky, both between 3 and 5 years old, were victims of a phenomenon known as cold-stunning—a condition similar to hypothermia in reptiles, caused by prolonged exposure to cold water temperatures. Mothman was found in Dundalk, Maryland, while Icky was a transferred patient from the New England Aquarium. In both cases, the turtles were unresponsive and in shock when they arrived at the National Aquarium’s Animal Rescue facility in Baltimore.
Cold Stunned
Mayor Rick Meehan and aquarium workers show off Mothman on his way to the waters edge.
Cold-stunned turtles require extensive care, including rehydration, gradual warming, nutritional support, and close medical monitoring. The National Aquarium is well-equipped for such efforts, rehabilitating an average of 75 turtles each year. Its state-of-the-art facility includes pools where water temperature can be carefully adjusted to match the needs of recovering patients, helping them regain strength and return to a healthy lifestyle.
Ocean City Loves Their Sea Life
Icky was released first onto the sand and was gently scooped away with the waves as crowds cheered him on.
While Ocean City does have a small rehabilitation center near the uptown police station, it's mainly designed for seals and used as a quick triage point for sea turtles in need before they are transferred to larger facilities like Baltimore. During their treatment, both Mothman and Icky showed resilience and adaptability. Like many sea turtles, they can remain out of the water for up to 24 hours if necessary, which proved useful during parts of their care and transport.
Drawing a Crowd
Beachgoers were excited to see these turtles up close and personal.
The release event drew in families, beachgoers, and turtle lovers alike. Children gathered around the turtles with wide eyes and eager questions as National Aquarium staff introduced Mothman and Icky to the crowd. The staff took time to answer questions and explain the journey of rehabilitation, turning the moment into both a celebration and an educational experience.
Mayor Meehan- the Cheerleader
An encouraging Mayor Meehan pointed the way to the water. We think Mothman was just saying thank you.
As the time came for the turtles to return to their ocean home, Icky wasted no time, racing toward the waves with enthusiasm. Mothman, however, had a brief change of heart, turning back toward the beach. Mayor Meehan, ever the supportive cheerleader, waved and encouraged the hesitant turtle. In a touching moment, Mothman paused, then turned again—this time sprinting toward the surf, where the waves gently carried him back to the sea.
Their story is a testament to the importance of marine wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Thanks to the collaboration between the National Aquarium, Ocean City officials, and other regional partners, Mothman and Icky have a second chance at life in the wild—a fitting ending to one chapter and the beginning of another beneath the waves.About Katie Ruskey
Katie Ruskey is a local author, splitting her time between Baltimore and Ocean City. Her debut fiction novel, Marlin Week, was released in August 2022 based on three captains that fish in the infamous White Marlin Open. Her first children's book, The A B Seas of Ocean City, Maryland takes young readers on a tour of OC. For more information on how to purchase her books, visit her website www.kruskeyauthor.com or follow her on IG/FB at Katherine Ruskey Author.
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