Destin-based wildlife refuge treats rare turtle as state tells them to be ready for oiled animals (PHOTOS)

This report comes to The Log by way of a facebook post from the Destin-based Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge.

"We got a call from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission yesterday asking us to be on standby over the next several days to respond to oiled wildlife. Its a weird feeling, and I hope we are not needed, but when she asked what we could handle, I was proud to say, 'everything.' She seemed very pleased to hear that. We have been asked to participate at all levels up to the final washing and rehab phase, a far cry from the initial "permission" we received.

The fact that we are being recognized as a vital contributor to the response is a testamant to all of the hard work of our staff and volunteers, and equally as important the fact that we are ready and well equipped to respond, and have been for some time, is due to the overwhelming support we have received through donations of much needed supplies and funds from all of you. So thank you!"

Hours later, the refuge reported that "the first oiled sea turtle, a juvenile Kemp's Ridley, brought in on crew boat from offshore. After an initial exam and PAPERWORK... she was transfered to a designated rehab facility."

To find out how to help see http://www.ecwildliferefuge.com