ICYMI: Endangered Sea Turtle Makes Triumphant Return After Months of Rehab in Florida!
A sea turtle was found wandering over a mile from the ocean, but after months of rehab in Florida, he’s been released! 🌐 #News #ApolloBeachFL #Florida #HeartwarmingNews
APOLLO BEACH, FL – A sea turtle found wandering more than a mile from the ocean has made an incredible comeback after months of rehabilitation in Apollo Beach, Florida. Buckley, the determined reptile whose unusual journey captured public attention, is now swimming free once again—and people can track his adventure online.
Rescuers were stunned when they found Buckley far from the shoreline, struggling along a dirt road in rural Dixie County back in November 2024. The disoriented turtle was spotted by good Samaritans who immediately called the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Hotline.
Experts from the University of Florida Marine Animal Rescue responded quickly, stabilizing Buckley before transferring him to The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in Apollo Beach for intensive care.
Three Months of Care Turned Buckley’s Fate Around
For three months, specialists at the rehabilitation center worked to nurse Buckley back to health. The turtle, named after nearby Buck Creek, had suffered scratches on his bottom shell from his trek over rough terrain. He was underweight and had low blood sugar, requiring expert care to regain his strength.
Buckley’s unusual rescue story caught the attention of local businessman Ed Buckley, a dedicated marine conservation advocate who felt an immediate connection.
“When I heard they rescued a turtle with my same name, I knew I had to get involved,” Buckley said in a statement.
“There’s a strong connection between Buckley and me—maybe it’s the name, maybe it’s kindred spirits—but one thing I do know is that protecting sea turtles is important. Their survival depends on all of us stepping up and hope the community will be compelled to help as well.”
Buckley donated $7,500 toward the turtle’s medical care and encouraged others to contribute, helping raise more than $10,000.
The Florida Aquarium noted that while sea turtles are endangered, no government funding exists to support their rehabilitation, making community donations vital.
A Crowd Gathers to Watch Buckley Return to the Gulf
On Wednesday, rescuers and supporters gathered at Fred Howard Park for the moment everyone had been waiting for—Buckley’s return to the ocean.
The turtle, once lost and struggling, was now strong enough to swim back into the Gulf where he belongs.
“This is why we do what we do—to see a once-struggling sea turtle like Buckley return home, stronger and healthier. It’s heartwarming,” said Ashley Riese, The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Conservation Program Director.
Buckley’s Journey Can Now Be Tracked Online
Thanks to a partnership with Verizon and the Sea Turtle Conservancy, a satellite tag was attached to Buckley’s shell before his release. This technology allows scientists and the public to monitor his travels in real time.
The tag will send signals each time Buckley surfaces to breathe, collecting valuable data about his feeding habits, migration routes, and water conditions. His tracking information will be available on The Florida Aquarium’s website within a week.
“Verizon’s continued support of The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Program underscores the importance of providing biologists with essential tools and connecting the community to the heart of these marine conservation efforts,” Riese said.
Buckley’s journey is far from over—but now, he’s swimming free, and the world is watching.
RELATED TOPICS: Animals | Florida | Heartwarming News
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
We value your feedback! Did you find this article informative, inspiring, or thought-provoking? Leave a comment below and join the discussion. We appreciate your opinion and look forward to hearing from you!
