How was the manatee rescued from the storm drain?

The manatee was rescued through a multi-agency effort involving fire rescue, wildlife authorities, and utility workers who dug through concrete to free it from the storm drain.

Where is the rescued manatee now?

The manatee, nicknamed Melby, is currently recovering at SeaWorld Orlando, where it is receiving expert care and rehabilitation.

Why are manatees threatened species in Florida?

Manatee populations have been impacted by habitat loss, pollution, and boat collisions, although their numbers have increased, leading to a downlisting from endangered to threatened.

Home / Environment / Sea Cow Saved! Manatee Recovers After Drain Ordeal

Sea Cow Saved! Manatee Recovers After Drain Ordeal

12 Feb

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Summary

A 400-pound manatee was rescued from a storm drain in Melbourne Beach, Florida.
Multiple agencies collaborated for hours to free the trapped sea cow.
The manatee, nicknamed Melby, is recovering well at SeaWorld Orlando.

Sea Cow Saved! Manatee Recovers After Drain Ordeal

A juvenile male manatee, weighing over 400 pounds, has been successfully rescued after becoming trapped in a storm drain in Melbourne Beach, Florida. Local fire rescue and wildlife authorities collaborated on February 9th to free the animal, which was found inside a 'baffle box' designed for stormwater management.

The rescue operation, which took place on the evening of February 9th, involved a coordinated effort from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Brevard County Fire Rescue, the University of Florida, and other services. Utility workers dug through concrete to reach the manatee, and a tow truck was used to lift the approximately seven-foot-long mammal to safety.

Responders noted that the manatee, later nicknamed Melby, was underweight and sustained wounds near its tail and flippers. It was transported to SeaWorld Orlando for specialized care and rehabilitation. As of February 10th, Melby was showing encouraging signs of recovery, including independent movement and a willingness to eat, according to SeaWorld Orlando's statement.