[KEY LARGO, FL] On Monday (3/8/24), Dolphin Research Center’s Manatee Rescue Team (DRC), Dolphins Plus, and the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) rescued a young, emaciated manatee in Key Largo, FL. The approximately 7 foot female animal was assessed as suffering injury from a boat-strike, causing negative buoyancy. She has been transported to SeaWorld Orlando for treatment and rehabilitation. This rescue is a perfect example of why you should never push marine mammals back into the water if they have beached themselves. Contact the appropriate authorities for guidance and help.
To report a manatee in distress, call 1-888-404-FWCC(3922). Please do not attempt to approach or assist the manatee. Above all, do not get into the water. Manatees are normally very gentle, but they are still wild, powerful animals and can weigh up to a ton! Getting in the water puts you at risk, and your good intentions may scare away the injured animal and prevent professional rescuers from giving it assistance.
Founded in 1984, Dolphin Research Center is home to a family of bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions.The nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization is located at 58901 (mile marker 59) Overseas Highway, Grassy Key, Florida. In addition to being a highly respected education and research facility, DRC is the Licensed Manatee Rescue Team for the Florida Keys and is an accredited member of the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and the International Marine Animal Trainers Association. For more information, visit www.dolphins.org.
