Giant Leatherback Turtle Freed from Fishing Line

Cape Cod marine mammal rescue crews successfully disentangled a large sea turtle from fishing line last weekend, according to a report in the Cape Cod Times.

Authorities say a passing boater spotted the distressed leatherback turtle near Pamet Harbor in Truro and reported it to the Provincetown-based Center for Coastal Studies Marine Animal Entanglement Response Team.   Rescuers found the five foot long leatherback and cut the commercial fishing line.  They reported there were minor injuries to the turtle.  It swam away slowly and is expected to recover.

The Entanglement Response Team says it has freed approximately 200 marine mammals, including endangered whales and sea turtles from fishing line and nets, and credits boaters with spotting the animals in need of help.  

The best way for recreational boaters, commercial fishermen and beachgoers to help marine mammals is to stay clear of them and to report injured or entangled animals to the U.S Coast Guard's Entanglement hotline,  800-900-3622.

Just last August, rescue crews cut line from another sea turtle in the waters off Cape Cod.  Video of that effort, posted on the Defense Video and Imagery System website, is posted below. 

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