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348 turtles take refuge from chilly waters at North Carolina Aquarium

Posted at 3:52 PM, Jan 07, 2016
and last updated 2016-01-07 16:29:37-05

MANTEO, N.C. – There is a good reason that 348 turtles are chilling out at The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island — the cold temperatures.

The sea turtles are staying warm in every spot imaginable, including the bathrooms. PHOTO: NC Aquarium

The sea turtles are staying warm in every spot imaginable, including the bathrooms. PHOTO: NC Aquarium

The aquarium received 349 cold-stunned sea turtles, said an aquarium spokesperson, WTKR reported.  The water temperatures have been below average for this time of year, which is generally around 57 degrees. The coast was also hit with snow on Tuesday.

Unable to reach warmer waters, the turtles could no longer swim or function properly.

The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island received 349 cold-stunned sea turtles. PHOTO: NC Aquarium

The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island received 349 cold-stunned sea turtles. PHOTO: NC Aquarium

The turtles were brought in late Wednesday. One of the turtles died during transport leaving 348 turtles remaining.

The sea turtles are staying warm in every spot imaginable including the bathrooms of the aquarium, which is currently closed to the public.

The sea turtles are staying warm in every spot imaginable, including the bathrooms. PHOTO: NC Aquarium

The sea turtles are staying warm in every spot imaginable, including the bathrooms. PHOTO: NC Aquarium

Ninety-one turtles were expected to be loaded onto a truck and taken to Florida at some point.

The aquarium staff needs medical supplies and financial donations to care for the turtles.Donations can be made here.