4/16/2010  This turtle was found off Siesta Key with line (possibly part of a net) wrapped tightly around the right front flipper and loosely circling the neck and left front flipper.  The line was cutting down to the bone near the shoulder joint and the flipper is very swollen, but fortunately the turtle seems to have retained blood supply and nerve function to the flipper.  The line was carefully removed and Liam was started on antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications.  The turtle has been placed in water and is swimming on his own.  Liam bit at some food when offered, but is not yet actually eating anything.  4/24  Liam is now eating very well, and continues to swim actively with both front flippers.  The injured/entangled flipper is still quite swollen, but appears to be slowly resolving.  5/9  Liam is doing very well — eating eagerly and gaining weight.  The wound around his flipper is healing beautifully and the swelling is almost resolved.  5/25  Liam continues to do well — is gaining weight steadily and the flipper wound is healing. 6/8  Liam is doing great — eating everything offered and the flipper wound is almost completely healed.  Turtle is gaining weight and is almost back to releasable condition.  6/22 Liam's flipper continues to heal well.  Once the flipper is completely healed, Liam should be able to be released. 7/24  This animal is ready for release! 8/2 Turtle was released today.

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