Boy Scouts Help Release Rehabbed Turtle Off Florida Keys

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MARATHON (CBSMiami/FKNB) — A rescued and rehabilitated loggerhead sea turtle named "Bubbles" has been released off the Florida Keys.

Some 200 spectators watched Saturday, June 11th, as several Boy Scouts and staff from The Turtle Hospital carried the 150-pound sub-adult female to the Atlantic Ocean.

"Bubbles" was discovered floating off Scout Key in the Lower Keys by several Boy Scouts March 15. It was transported to the Turtle Hospital in nearby Marathon and treated for an intestinal impaction with antibiotics, lactulose and a diet of fish and squid.

"I'm so proud to be a Boy Scout and be part of the organization that was able to rescue this animal and to be able to see it go back into the wild," said Drew Van Chau.

The Turtle Hospital has been caring for injured sea turtles for almost 30 years. Hospital officials said that about 2,000 turtles have been treated and release.

"The last part, watching that turtle go, makes me feel great," said Richie Moretti, hospital founder and director. "It's been making me feel great for 30 years."

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