TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -- A warning to those who may want to release balloons outdoors: not only is it against the law, but it can harm wildlife.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is reminding residents that a little-known-law prohibits releasing more than nine lighter-than-air balloons in a day.
Wildlife, especially sea turtles, mistake balloons for food. Plus, strings attached to balloons can entangle birds and other animals.
It's a $250 fine for a violation.
There are some exceptions, including scientific or meteorological balloons released by a governmental agency or under a governmental contract.
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