Grassy Key… A manatee that was severely injured by a boat strike and rescued by Dolphin Research Center’s Manatee Rescue Team and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) last August in Key Colony Beach is scheduled to return home. The public is invited to attend his return and release on Monday, April 24th behind Key Colony Beach City Hall, 600 West Ocean Drive. The estimated time is between 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.
At the time of his injury on August 10, the male animal, subsequently named Key3PO, suffered deep slashes to his tail with crushed vertebrae. The injuries were so serious that he lost nearly half of his tail paddle. After rescue he was transported to Miami Seaquarium where he received dedicated care and treatment. After months of rehabilitation, he is functional and has demonstrated the skills to forage and care for himself back out in the open water. “Key3PO’s survival demonstrates the dedication that different organizations and the general public give to the welfare of manatees,” said Dolphin Research Center Co-Founder Armando “Mandy” Rodriguez. “His release is a true celebration.” For more information about the release event, please call DRC’s Mary Stella at 305-289-1121, ext. 254.
Founded in 1984, Dolphin Research Center is home to a family of dolphins and California sea lions. Located at 58901 (mile marker 59) Overseas Highway, Grassy Key, Florida, the center is open daily for the public to see narrated behavior sessions and educational presentations, and to participate in interactive programs with the dolphins. In addition to being one of the most highly respected education and research facilities in the world, 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. The nonprofit organization is funded by admission and program fees as well as by private donors and members. For more information, visit www.dolphins.org.
