SeaWorld Orlando veterinarian removes lodged fishing hook from throat of loggerhead sea turtle

Press release from SeaWorld Orlando:

 

Feb. 27, 2012 (Orlando, Fla.) -- This morning SeaWorld Orlando’s senior veterinarian performed surgery on a rescued sea turtle, removing a large fishing hook from its throat. 

 

The animal was found by the Inwater Research Group - an organization committed to the research and conservation of coastal species and habitats – who also assisted in the animal’s transport. The turtle, a sub-adult weighing approximately 100 pounds, was rescued from the intake canal at the St. Lucie Power Plant in St. Lucie County, Fla.

The turtle arrived at SeaWorld Orlando last night (February 26) and underwent surgery this morning following x-rays and blood work procedures. According to the veterinary team, the 4-inch-long hook was successfully removed. The turtle’s behavior will continue to be monitored over the next several weeks, but is doing well following the procedure.

 

So far this year, SeaWorld Orlando has rescued nine sea turtles. It is the intent that upon recovery, this animal will be released back into its natural environment.

For 45 years, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment has helped animals in need -- ill, injured and orphaned.  More than 20,000 animals have been rescued by our experts.‪ SeaWorld’s animal rescue team is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. ‪