Sea Turtle Recovers From Machete Attack

POSTED: Tuesday, October 14, 2008

UPDATED: 1:31 pm EDT October 14, 2008

Photo Courtesy: The Turtle Hospital

Johnny was released in the Florida Keys on Tuesday after making a full recovery from a vicious attack in July.

www.turtlehospital.org

MARATHON, Fla. -- A protected loggerhead sea turtle that was repeatedly sliced with a machete has made a full recovery and been released in the Florida Keys on Tuesday.

On July 12, witnesses saw the turtle being harmed and called law enforcement authorities. The turtle, who was named Johnny, was transported to The Turtle Hospital in Marathon.

Jack Hanna, the director-emeritus of Columbus Zoo and nature show television host, participated in the release.

Officials from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission are continuing an investigation into the turtle's injuries.

The machete used in the attack was recovered and evidence sent to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for analysis.

For more information about Johnny and to learn about endangered Sea Turtles and what you can do to help, visit www.turtlehospital.org.

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