Wildlife hazard removed from the water

Marine Deputy James Hager found this bunch of balloons on the water offshore of Sugarloaf Key. Balloons are danger to marine wildlife. Please be careful if you are using balloons at an outdoor celebration.

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "Balloons are great at birthdays, weddings, graduations and more, but once they get loose, balloons can pose a threat to many animals.

Birds, turtles and other animals commonly mistake balloons for food, which can harm or even kill them.

In addition, many animals can become entangled in balloon strings, which can strangle them or hurt their feet and hands."

Thanks to Deputy Hager, at least this particular bunch of balloons was disposed of properly.