A 375-pound (170-kilogram) sea turtle named Bubba has been released back into the Atlantic Ocean after undergoing three months of rehabilitation at the Brevard Zoo in Florida. The release took place on a Wednesday afternoon in Cocoa Beach, marking the successful recovery of the turtle.
Bubba, a male loggerhead, was initially found by biologists from Inwater Research in St. Lucie County on April 10. Noticing injuries to his front flippers, the biologists used a crane to lift him out of the water and transport him to the zoo in a pickup truck.
Recovered Sea Turtle Bubba Returns to Atlantic Ocean After Rehabilitation at Brevard ZooUpon examination, it was determined that Bubba had likely sustained his injuries during a predator attack. Additionally, he was suffering from a severe infestation of marine leeches, which had led to anemia. These health issues necessitated his extended stay at the rehabilitation facility.
Biologists estimate that Bubba is between 60 and 75 years old. His successful recovery and release highlight the effective conservation efforts and care provided by the Brevard Zoo and Inwater Research teams.