Once SeaWorld’s veterinarians thoroughly examined the bird, it was determined to be in perfect health. However, at an estimated 3-4 days old at the time it was brought into SeaWorld’s care, it was simply too young to survive on its own. The chick was then paired with a rescued adult crane, in order to learn the specific crane behaviors essential for life in the wild.

While sometimes difficult for orphaned chicks to be tolerated by older cranes that are not familiar with them, the adult crane accepted the orphaned chick, which is now thriving. Eric Reece, SeaWorld’s Supervisor of Aviculture, adds, “The chick is doing fantastic. It’s eating on its own and gaining weight”.

It is the intent of SeaWorld’s Aviculture team to return both cranes to their natural habitat together once the chick has fledged, or grown the feathers necessary for flying. SeaWorld’s animal rescue team is on call 24/7 to save and care for injured, orphaned or ill animals. So far in 2012, SeaWorld Orlando has taken in 11 rescued cranes.

Many of the dogs are sick, injured, or starving. These stray dogs are also without vaccinations, making them easy targets for contracting rabies. Once they’re infected, they infect people, including children, who often die due to lack of local services or money to pay for the treatment.

Dharamsala Animal Rescue is the only animal shelter in the province, giving lifesaving vaccinations to animals for as little as $1. They also humanely treat sick and injured animals. This is why their work is so important. They save the lives of animals and prevent infections in people. Please visit their Facebook page and help spread the word for the work they are doing.

This turtle was covered with algae and fauna, as seen in the photo.

Both hatchlings were brought to SeaWorld for examination and continued care, including, feeding, giving fluids and around-the-clock observation and monitoring.

Because of their age and size, they’re living in a small brooder where the temperature is kept at a constant 84 degrees. They are in the water several times throughout the day but also spend time dry in order to conserve their energy. The turtles are taken home in their brooder each night by a turtle expert (aquarist) for middle-of-the-night feedings.

It’s a tough journey ahead but both turtles are looking better and are showing positive signs. Hawksbill turtles are endangered due to human exploitation and habitat degradation.

This year, SeaWorld Orlando has rescued 10 sea turtles and released three.  For more than 45 years, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment has helped animals in need — ill, injured and orphaned.  More than 20,000 animals have been rescued by our experts.? SeaWorld’s animal rescue team is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. ?