The female loggerhead was found on Gulf Drive near 23rd Street North in Bradenton Beach June 22 by Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch volunteer Bill Booher.
Officers from Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach police departments and AMITW volunteers Bridgit Kremer and Hans Duerr helped Booher move the turtle back to the beach and into the Gulf of Mexico.
Booher said they transported the 200-300 pound turtle using a furniture pad.
“We did everything we could to make the journey back as easy as possible for her,” he said.
Booher was going to the beach for a walk when he found the turtle at about 5:40 a.m. By about 6:30 a.m., the sea turtle was in the Gulf.
Booher said signs indicated the turtle had nested — its back was covered from digging. Booher also said the turtle could have reached the road for several reasons, ranging from the turtle taking a wrong turn to lighting issues.
“It happens. That’s why we’re here,” he said. “A good effort by everyone on the island.”
If you see a sick, dead or struggling sea turtle, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission hotline at 1-888-404-3922.
— Kelsey Mako