Sea Turtle Released at Sombrero Beach

A sea turtle was released back into the ocean at Sombrero Beach in Marathon Saturday.

The turtle, named Francis, was admitted to the Turtle Hospital in January after she was found floating by a local diver operator out of Captain Hook's Dive Center.

The 150-pound loggerhead sea turtle was pulled onto the crew's boat and taken to the Turtle Hospital where vets found out she had severe intestinal impaction, which can cause infections and create buoyancy issues for the turtle.

Francis was given antibiotics, beano, lactulose, vitamins and a healthy diet of fish an squid during her treatment at the Turtle Hospital. By the time she was ready to leave the hospital, she had gained 20 pounds and was able to dive again.

Hundreds gathered to witness Francis' send-off, including young students who learned about ocean conservation.

Contact Us