Iconic 95-Year-Old Sea Turtle Myrtle Wows Visitors During Physical Examination at New England Aquarium

Myrtle, an ancient green sea turtle, has been a beloved resident of the New England Aquarium in Boston for over 50 years. At almost 95 years old, Myrtle has surpassed the upper boundaries of her species' longevity, yet she remains in robust condition. The aquarium's manager, Mike O'Neill, expressed confidence that Myrtle will continue to delight visitors for years to come, emphasizing her multigenerational impact on families.

Myrtle recently underwent a comprehensive physical examination, a remarkable feat considering her size and age. Weighing nearly 500 pounds, Myrtle was carefully lifted from the Giant Ocean Tank and placed in an enormous crate for the examination. Veterinarians, accompanied by a team of experts, conducted various assessments, including blood draws, range of motion checks, and ultrasound scans. Despite the daunting nature of the procedure, Myrtle was safely returned to her ocean habitat by late morning, much to the relief of the aquarium staff.

An Enduring Legacy

Myrtle's impact extends far beyond her advanced age and immense size. Having been visited by approximately 50 million people, Myrtle has become accustomed to human interaction during her time at the aquarium. Her gentle demeanor and affection for shell scratches have endeared her to countless visitors, making her a cherished and iconic figure at the New England Aquarium.

Roommates and Companions

Besides Myrtle, the aquarium is also home to two loggerhead sea turtles named Carolina and Retread. Both approximately half Myrtle's age and size, these companions also underwent thorough physical examinations on the same day. O'Neill confirmed that both turtles are in excellent health, providing further reassurance to the aquarium's visitors and staff.

Green sea turtles, like Myrtle, are classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with their population on a decline. The New England Aquarium's dedication to caring for these remarkable creatures serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts to protect endangered species like the green sea turtle.

The ongoing care and well-being of Myrtle and her companions are a testament to the enduring commitment of the New England Aquarium to ocean conservation and the preservation of marine life.