Here's a story of unwanted drop-offs with an unexpectedly happy ending.
A couple of years back Shedd Aquarium received a call from a man who had
a sea turtle from Florida (whoo boy, big illegal) that wasn't eating.
He wanted advice on how to care for it.  After informing him of how and
why this was illegal, and with much negotiating, the person was
convinced to bring the turtle in.  US Fish and Wildlife met the guy, and
what turned out to be six endangered sea turtles, at the door.

It turned out this fellow had a long history of dealing in endangered
animals and had, up until this time, received only light slaps on the
wrist.  He was charged, the Aquarium testified, and the fellow received
70 days in prison followed by a year's probation and a $14,455 fine to
be paid to Shedd for caring for the turtles.

The press coverage that followed prompted another unsolicited donation
at the door.  A note explained the turtle had been smuggled out of
Florida as a pet.  After hearing the results of the criminal charges, he
wisely decided an anonymous donation was the best for the animal and all
concerned.

All seven turtles grew up big and strong at Shedd and were tagged and
released in Florida with the assistance of Florida's Department of
Environmental Protection.  We wish these drop-off donations well in
their watery home!

Linda Wilson
Shedd Aquarium

For more information on this, listers can contact Karen Furnweger,
editor, Shedd Aquarium at 312 939-2438 ext 3374.