WILMINGTON, N.C. -- An injured sea turtle is recovering after being rescued by The Coast Guard, the NC Wildlife Resource Commission and a good Samaritan Monday.

• Happened less than a mile off Wrightsville Beach
• Turtle had hook in mouth and injured fin
• Transported to The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City

It happened less than a mile off Wrightsville Beach.

Watchstanders were contacted by the good Samaritan and told them a small sea turtle was found with a hook in its mouth and an injured fin.

The turtle was transported to a Coast Guard boat and a WRC representative took custody. It was then taken to The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City.

“Due to the Lady Lisa’s quick action, authorities were able to transport this injured sea turtle to a facility where it can receive the care it needs,” said Commander Matt Moorlag, the Sector North Carolina deputy sector commander. “The boating public plays a vital role in the conservation of our protected species.”