Islamorada

A family in the Florida Keys located 64 baby sea turtles trapped in a backyard pool at Islamorada, after they became disoriented. Unable to survive in chlorinated water, the homeowners contacted The Turtle Hospital for rescue and care. After recovering over several days, all 64 hatchlings were successfully released into the ocean within the Gulf Stream.

Scientists are urgently rescuing Florida’s last remaining elkhorn coral as rising ocean temperatures threaten another bleaching event. Teams from the University of Miami’s Lirman Coral Restoration Lab collected 30 elkhorn coral pieces for protection in a hatchery, while NOAA raised alerts for parts of the Florida Reef Tract. Efforts by Mote Marine Laboratory and the Coral Restoration Foundation aim to preserve genetic diversity critical for rebuilding reefs.

The Hungry Tarpon Restaurant at Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada was ordered to shut by Florida state inspectors due to rodent activity, pest infestations, and sanitation violations. Tee Jay Thai Sushi in Wilton Manors was also ordered to close for similar issues, including rodent droppings and improper food storage.

A Good Samaritan and a deputy rescued three teenagers who were thrown overboard from a runaway boat traveling at 35 mph near Islamorada. The deputy used a hook to stop the boat and the trio were rescued on Sunday.