A horrible virus is tormenting Florida's turtles

 

Turtles Are Getting Mysteriously Ill in Central Florida, and Scientists Need Help!      Sign Now        Wildlife officials in Florida are sounding the alarm on a virus that is threatening turtles across the state. The slow-moving, shelled reptiles are suffering -- there are reports of turtles with swollen or sunken eyes, red, irritated skin, and lethargy so intense that they don't even flee from predators or humans. Some turtles are even so sick that they appear dead.   Crucially, members of the public should never attempt to move or touch turtles, whether they look healthy or in need of help. The best thing Floridians can do is call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission so that experts and researchers can assist the turtle and better understand the virus' impacts. But not everyone may be aware of these best practices, which is why Florida needs to invest in education and awareness campaigns as well as research into how to stop the spread of this devastating illness!    Florida is one of the most biodiverse states in the U.S., meaning its ecosystem -- and every animal in it -- plays a key role in the health of the nation's environment. Sign the petition now to push Florida to invest more money into researching this virus and creating a public awareness campaign to protect our beloved turtles! Thank you, Lauren Care2 Petitions Team P.S. A horrible virus is devastating turtle populations across Florida. Sign the petition.      Sign Now

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