[KEY LARGO, FL] On March 11, 2026, Two rehabilitated Florida manatees were
successfully returned to the wild today following months of care and rehabilitation. The release
was made possible through a collaborative effort between Dolphin Research Center, the
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), SeaWorld Orlando, and
Aquarium Encounters.
The two manatees, Luca and Giovanni, were rescued in separate incidents after being found in
situations requiring intervention.
Giovanni was rescued on August 27, 2024, as a young calf after responders determined he had been
orphaned. The area was monitored for several days in hopes that his mother would return, but
when she did not, rescuers intervened to provide the care needed to give the calf the best chance
of survival.
Luca was rescued on May 5, 2025, as a juvenile manatee exhibiting unusual and concerning
behavior. During the rescue, a veterinarian from Dolphin Research Center determined that
Luca was likely suffering from a gastrointestinal infection and required medical treatment.
Following their rescues, both manatees were transported to SeaWorld Orlando for specialized
medical care and rehabilitation. After completing their primary rehabilitation, and due to their
young ages, Luca and Giovanni were later transferred to Aquarium Encounters in the Florida
Keys where they continued to grow and build strength while awaiting release.
Today, both manatees were successfully released into the waters of Key Largo, marking the final
step in their rehabilitation journey and their return to the wild.
The rescue, rehabilitation, and release of manatees is part of a statewide conservation effort led
by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and supported by a network of
dedicated rescue and rehabilitation partners throughout Florida.
Members of the public who encounter a sick, injured, or orphaned manatee are encouraged to
report it to the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
For more information about Dolphin Research Center, visit us at dolphins.org or on social media:
Facebook and Instagram.
