Dozens of rescued sea turtles head home

DUNEDIN - It was pure joy on an overcast and blustery day on Honeymoon Island: Never before have so many sea turtles been returned to the wild after becoming sick and stranded.

"This is phenomenal; I'm actually on the verge of tears," offered one of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium workers.

>> Photos: Turtle release

Nearly 50 turtles were released in all, representing several different species. Each suffered the numbing chill of cold water over the last two weeks.

Once the water goes below 50 degrees, the turtles stop swimming and eating.

Thursday's release cleared about half the turtle population at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where they're nurtured back to health by staff and a community of volunteers.

Before they're set free to roam in their natural world again, each turtle is measured, then tagged in case they turn up again.