Bubba was found in Leeville, LA in April 2015 behind a bait shop. Bubba was suffering from buoyancy control issues causing him to have difficulty swimming. A concerned citizen called the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) who then contacted the Coastal Wildlife Network (CWN) to take the animal in for rehabilitation. Following a full exam by Audubon veterinary staff, it became evident that the turtle suffered blunt force trauma and fractures were most likely caused by a boat strike.Upon intake he was given fluids, antibiotics and plenty of rest. A CT scan showed the animal suffered from a fractured pelvis, vertebrae, and ribs.

Due to the bouyancy control issue a weight pouch (seen in the video below) was desgined for the animal to help control his bouyancy. After two weeks, the pouches fell off and Bubba could swim normally again. Bubba recieved plenty of rest and relaxation for about a year and five months before he was released back into the Gulf of Mexico on September 21, 2015.

Watch the video below to see footage of Bubba being released!

If you see a sick/injured marine mammal or sea turtle please call (504) 235-3005