Manatee Calf Rescued By Dolphin Research Center
[KEY LARGO, FL] On May 5, 2026, Dolphin Research Center (DRC) responded to an urgent call to assist in the rescue of a severely emaciated manatee calf at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
Upon arrival, Dolphin Research Center’s trained response team assessed the calf, which was found to be in critical condition and in need of immediate intervention. DRC’s staff veterinarian administered preliminary supportive care at the site of the rescue, stabilizing the animal for transport.
Following initial treatment, the manatee calf was safely transported to SeaWorld Orlando, where he will receive intensive, around-the-clock veterinary care and rehabilitation.
“This was a critical rescue effort where rapid response and collaboration were essential,” said Allie Proskovec, Director of Media & Marketing at Dolphin Research Center. “Our team worked quickly to provide life-saving support and ensure the calf has the best possible chance for recovery.”
DRC remains committed to the protection, rescue, and rehabilitation of marine mammals throughout the Florida Keys and beyond.
Dolphin Research Center’s role as the sole licensed manatee rescue team in the Florida Keys makes their work essential for the region’s wildlife health and safety. The organization encourages anyone who spots a manatee that may be injured, entangled, or in distress to call the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).
For more information or to support DRC’s conservation efforts, visit www.dolphins.org, or social media: Facebook and Instagram.
