FWC officers rescue loggerhead sea turtle caught in lobster trap lines

Turtle to be released in next few months

KEY WEST, Fla. – A loggerhead sea turtle was rescued last week by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers after it got wrapped up in lobster trap lines about 16 miles off Key West.

FWC officials said officers tried to free the more than 300-pound turtle from the multiple trap lines on Feb. 8, and noticed that one of its fins had been destroyed by the trap ropes.

It took officers about two hours to bring the turtle onto the boat.

The turtle, named Jolly, was taken to the Marathon Turtle Hospital, where it underwent surgery.

Jolly is expected to be released back into the water within the next few months.


About the Author:

Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com.