KEY WEST, Fla. — A very large turtle was released into the wild after rehabilitating at The Turtle Hospital in Florida.
The animal, who rescuers named Cooter B, was entangled in a crab trap in August before being transferred to the care center where she recovered.
The 365-pound sea turtle survived a severe boat strike and an entanglement in the trap that resulted in her losing her front flipper, according to the nonprofit rehab center. She was released back into the wild Thursday in Key West.
“The best place for her is back home in the wild. She’s a strong, resilient fighter!" said Bette Zirkelback from The Turtle Hospital.
It took many people to help rescue here with Florida Fish and Wildlife teaming up with the Coast Guard and The Turtle Hospital staff. Cooter B's treatment included amputation surgery, the removal of a piece of aluminum prop embedded in her shell, wound care, antibiotics, vitamins and fluids.
Anyone who sees a stranded or dead sea turtle or marine mammal within Sarasota or Manatee County waters is encouraged to call Mote's Stranding Investigations Program, a 24-hour response service, at 888-345-2335.
If you see a stranded manatee or sea turtle in state waters call the FWC Wildlife Alert hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).
