SeaWorld veterinarians remove hook from sea turtle's mouth

ORLANDO, Fla. – A SeaWorld veterinarian successfully removed a fishing hook from the mouth of sea turtle.

The juvenile loggerhead sea turtle was rescued near Jetty Beach by the Sea Turtle Preservation Society and was then brought to SeaWorld Orlando for immediate medical attention and rehabilitation.

After the turtle was stabilized the rescue team was able to take X-rays to determine how deep the hook was before removal. Fortunately, the hook was a "circle" hook and was able to be removed without causing other injury to the tissue.

Circle hooks are often recommended for fishing because turtles are less likely to swallow them.

After the procedure the turtle seemed in good spirits, immediately swimming and eating again.

SeaWorld experts will continue to monitor the sea turtle's heath over several weeks.
To report someone injuring a sea turtle, as well as a dead or harassed sea turtle please call 888-404-3922.