Ep 12. Marine ER

In Ocean Mysteries season 1 episode 12, titled "Marine ER," viewers delve into the rescue efforts of marine animals in need. The episode takes place at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland, where a team of dedicated staff work around the clock to provide medical care and rehabilitation to animals that have been injured or sick.

The episode begins with host Jeff Corwin introducing viewers to the aquarium's marine animal rescue team, including veterinarian Dr. Brent Whitaker and animal rehabilitation specialist Jen Dittmar. They explain how the team responds to calls from the public and local authorities about distressed animals they encounter in the Chesapeake Bay and surrounding areas.

The first animal featured in the episode is a Kemp's Ridley sea turtle, one of the most endangered species of sea turtles in the world. The turtle had been caught in a fishing line, causing significant injuries to her flippers and shell. Dr. Whitaker and his team explain the various medical treatments and rehabilitation the turtle undergoes in order to recover. Viewers get an inside look at the surgical procedures performed by Dr. Whitaker to repair the turtle's injuries and the physical therapy exercises conducted by Dittmar to help the turtle regain strength in her flippers.

Next up, viewers are introduced to an adorable harbor seal pup that was found alone on the beach. Often, baby seals are simply left by their mothers for short periods of time while the mother hunts for food. However, when the animal rescue team came across this particular pup, they knew she was in need of help. The team performs a thorough medical exam to check for any signs of malnutrition or other health issues. The pup is found to be in good health and receives a special formula to ensure she remains well nourished as she grows.

Viewers also get to witness the life-saving work of the aquarium's Marine Animal Rescue Program out in the field. The team responds to a call about a baby harbor porpoise that has become stranded in a tidal pool. Without intervention, the porpoise would soon perish. So, the team quickly springs into action to rescue the animal before it's too late.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given a glimpse into the intense training and education required to be a part of the marine animal rescue team. The team members must be well-versed in animal anatomy, medical treatment, and rehabilitation techniques. They must also be ready to act at a moment's notice, whether that means traveling to a remote location to rescue an animal or administering life-saving treatment in the middle of the night.

As the episode comes to a close, viewers see the successful release of the Kemp's Ridley sea turtle back into the wild. The animal rescue team celebrates the successful rehabilitation and release of another animal back into its natural habitat. The episode ends with a powerful message about the importance of conservation and protecting marine life for future generations.

In "Marine ER," viewers are treated to an inspiring look at the incredible work of the National Aquarium's Marine Animal Rescue Program. The dedication and passion of the team shine through in every scene, making it clear that these individuals truly care about protecting and preserving our oceans' precious inhabitants. The episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in marine conservation or animal rescue efforts, and is sure to leave viewers feeling both informed and inspired.