SeaWorld, FWC rescue manatee mother, calf

ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld Orlando received a manatee mother and her young calf for rehabilitation after they were rescued May 9 from Tomoka River near Ormond Beach.
 
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission determined the 10-foot-2-inch long, more than 1,200 lb. manatee was having severe buoyancy issues, which could negatively impact its health, eating patterns and nursing of her calf.
 
The manatee had a scar on its back and officials presumed she was struck by a watercraft. Veternarians said the manatee was suffering from pneumothorax, which means it had air trapped inside its chest cavity.
 
SeaWorld officials successfully removed the air and said the manatee has been swimming more upright since, but officials are still monitoring its progress.
 
The FWC also rescued a young orphaned manatee calf from the Satellite Beach area. It has received nutritional support and is under a 24-hour watch.
 
SeaWorld has rescued 11 manatees and returned 13 to the wild in 2016.

Cox Media Group