Brevard Zoo Euthanizes Two Loggerhead Turtles Due to Fishing Gear Injuries
Two loggerhead sea turtles were euthanized at Brevard Zoo due to injuries from abandoned fishing gear. A third turtle is recovering from a flipper amputation.
Orlando Daytona Beach Melbourne, FL, August 16, 2026 —
Two loggerhead sea turtles have been euthanized at the Brevard Zoo after sustaining severe injuries from abandoned fishing gear. The tragic outcome highlights the ongoing dangers discarded fishing equipment poses to marine wildlife.
The turtles were brought to the zoo’s Sea Turtle Healing Center for treatment. However, the extent of their injuries, attributed to entanglement in abandoned fishing gear, proved too severe to overcome. Zoo veterinarians made the difficult decision to euthanize both animals to prevent further suffering.
In a separate but related incident, a third loggerhead sea turtle is currently recovering at the healing center. This turtle also suffered injuries from fishing gear, necessitating the amputation of a flipper. The recovery process for this animal is ongoing.
Brevard Zoo’s Sea Turtle Healing Center frequently treats sea turtles affected by marine debris, with fishing gear being a significant contributor to injuries such as entanglement, ingestion, and propeller strikes. The center provides critical care and rehabilitation for sick and injured sea turtles with the goal of returning them to the wild.
The incident serves as a somber reminder of the impact of marine pollution and the importance of responsible waste disposal and marine conservation efforts. Abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear, often referred to as ‘ghost gear,’ can continue to trap and injure marine life for decades.
Story summarized from the original created by Camille.Sarabia@fox.com (Camille Sarabia) on www.fox35orlando.com, see more information here.
