A green sea turtle with injured flippers that was rescued from a crab trap was released back into the sea off the coast of Florida.

The endangered reptile, weighing 26 lbs (165kg), was stuck inside the cage and hurt itself trying to escape when it was found by good Samaritans in Key West in August.

The marine animal was named Cooter B by rescuers and was taken to The Turtle Hospital, where medics decided to amputate one of its front limbs.

Cooter B also underwent surgery to remove a piece of aluminium pierced in its shell.

After a month, the turtle recovered and was released into the water on September 20.

Footage shows volunteers and officers on a Coast Guard boat assisting Cooter B in hopping off the vessel and returning to its habitat.

Bette Zirkelback from The Turtle Hospital said: ‘The best place for her is back home in the wild. She's a strong, resilient fighter.'

Turtles can adapt to losing a limb, and many can swim and move around effectively. Adaptability depends on their environment, age, and overall health. Some turtles even manage to thrive with the help of rehabilitation efforts if they are rescued.