Florida

Sturgeon Leaps from River, Knocks Florida Teen Unconscious

A Florida teenager was knocked unconscious by a sturgeon jumping from the Suwannee River, wildlife authorities say.

It's the second strike involving that type of fish in two weeks on a north Florida river.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the sturgeon are jumping just as they have for millions of years. Occasionally Florida boaters get in their way.

Authorities say 14-year-old Heavyn Nash of Fanning Springs was boating with family Sunday in Manatee Springs State Park when a sturgeon up to 6-feet long leapt into the boat, knocking her out. She was treated at a hospital.

Another sturgeon crashed into a boat's windshield May 23 on the Santa Fe River.

Sturgeon can leap more than 7 feet out of the water. The protected fish average 40 pounds.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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