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On August 11, Save-A-Turtle received a call from FWC dispatch regarding a severely injured Loggerhead sea turtle spotted in Jewfish Basin. The animal was reported to be “in distress and bleeding,” likely from a boat strike. The rescuer on scene transported the turtle by boat to Beach Weekend Marina, where SAT volunteers were asked to meet, assess the situation, and coordinate with FWC for potential transport to The Turtle Hospital.
Within minutes, a team was in motion. The Beach Weekend Marina crew and bystanders carefully transferred the large Loggerhead onto a dock cart and covered the injury with a wet towel. SAT volunteers, equipped with moving blankets, towels, and supplies, worked alongside the marina staff to stabilize the animal until further transport could be arranged.
FWC had already alerted The Turtle Hospital, and a plan was quickly set in place: SAT would meet their ambulance team at the CVS in Big Pine Key. Upon arrival, helpful bystanders assisted in lifting the turtle, and The Turtle Hospital’s rescue staff, Mattie and Isabelle, took over immediate care and transport.
This rescue was a true community effort—from FWC’s swift coordination, to the Beach Weekend Marina staff who stepped in without hesitation, to compassionate strangers lending their strength, and finally to The Turtle Hospital team, who provide critical care to injured sea turtles every day. Not all turtles make it but every effort is made to help them survive.
Moments like these are a reminder of the importance of working together to protect marine life, and of the strength and resilience of these incredible animals. Save-A-Turtle is proud to play a role in giving sea turtles the respect, dignity, and compassion they deserve.
📞 Report injured sea turtles to the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
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