Barney was released on Friday, June 10, at Florida Bay Outfitters and the Caribbean Club, MM 104, in Key Largo.  Barney’s rescuer, Towboat US Captain Mark Hutchings, was there to see the remarkable transformation from the sick and floating loggerhead turtle that he had rescued on March 13 in Jewfish Creek to an energetic, healthy turtle that was almost climbing out of the tray used to transport him. Others on hand were Frank and Monica Woll, owners of Florida Bay Outfitters, who allowed the use of their beach for the release, and about 25 others who came out to celebrate the end of school and the end to Barney’s three-month hospital stay. Once he hit the water, Barney quickly swam away. What a great way to start the summer!!!

                

Captain Mark Hutchings, Turtle Hospital founder Richie Moretti and staff Jo Ellen Basile, Bob Smargiassi release Barney, a loggerhead sea turtle in Key Largo on Friday, June 10.