Pepper Jack will make his return to the sea on July 11

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. – The Marine Science Center in Ponce Inlet announced one of its sea turtle hospital patients will soon return to the sea this week after three months of rehabilitation.

Pepper Jack, a subadult loggerhead sea turtle, is set to be released around 10 a.m. on July 11 at the Beach Street Ramp in Ponce Inlet, weather and surf conditions permitting, according to the Marine Science Center.

Pepper Jack was found stranded in March on the shore in Daytona Beach. Officials stated that the turtle was underweight and lethargic, completely covered with barnacles and other organisms.

The Marine Science Center took him in, nursing him back to health through treatment with vitamins, antibiotics fluids, and a healthy diet. The turtle has gained back 18 pounds and is ready to be released, according to officials.

Those interested in watching Pepper Jack’s triumphant return to the ocean are welcome to join the Marine Science Center at the beach on Thursday. According to the news release about the event, paid beach parking is available on the south side of the ramp, tide permitting, or viewers can park without charge at the Marine Science Center and walk to the beach.

The Marine Science Center is a rehabilitation facility in Volusia County that has cared for more than 27,000 turtles and other reptiles since its opening in 2002. To learn more about this organization or to plan a visit, check out its website.