[KEY LARGO, FL] On May 5, 2025, a juvenile male manatee exhibiting signs of a possible gastrointestinal infection was rescued in Key Largo by the Dolphin Research Center (DRC) in coordination with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The animal was safely transported to SeaWorld Orlando, where he is now receiving medical care and rehabilitation.
The manatee was first reported as exhibiting unusual and concerning behavior. Responding swiftly, DRC and FWC staff assessed the animal and determined that intervention was necessary. The successful rescue underscores the critical role of collaboration between wildlife organizations in protecting Florida’s vulnerable manatee population.
“We are always on alert, but over the past few weeks, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in the number of manatee rescues throughout the Florida Keys,” said Ryan Webster, Rescue Team Lead at Dolphin Research Center. “While gastrointestinal illness is a concern, the majority of cases we respond to involve traumatic injuries such as boat strikes—often resulting in pneumothorax—or entanglements from improperly discarded fishing line.”
The Dolphin Research Center, located in Grassy Key, is proud to be the only licensed manatee rescue facility in the Florida Keys. The organization plays a crucial role in first-response rescues and works with partners across the state to ensure injured and ill manatees receive the treatment they need.
The public is reminded to stay alert while boating and to properly dispose of fishing gear to help reduce preventable manatee injuries.
For more information or to report a sick, injured, or distressed manatee, please contact FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).
For more information about Dolphin Research Center, visit us at dolphins.org or on social media: Facebook and Instagram.
