A stranded sea turtle rescue workers planned to take to Sea World has been instead taken to Mote Marine in Sarasota, where it previously had been tagged.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission this same turtle was first tagged 21 years ago and is a nesting female approximately 40 to 50 years old. Mote Marine called FWC and asked the sea turtle be returned to them since they were the last organization to tag her.
The sea turtle was found early in the morning on April 16 on the beach in front of the Naples Beach Hotel. It was in good shape and healthy with no apparent injuries, however it did appear to be underweight by approximately 50 pounds.
After inspecting the turtle, Parks and Recreation immediately notified the FWC as part of its usual procedures. Staff then mobilized the sea turtle to prepare to take her to a rehabilitation center.
It is estimated the female loggerhead weighs approximately 200 pounds and should instead be a healthier 250 pounds. Sea turtles can weigh as much as 800 pounds.
“It is encouraging to learn that this is a nesting female, which we were able to help rescue and get her to a place where she will hopefully recover and continue her long life,” said Parks and Recreation Regional Manager Murdo Smith.
Loggerhead turtles are classified as an endangered species and are protected by Federal law. Parks and Recreation thanks the Good Samaritans for reporting this stranded sea turtle.
For more information about sea turtles, regulations and how you can help, visit www.collierparks.com