Dolphin Research Center Helps Release Rehabilitated Manatee in Florida Keys

Big Pine Key… After three and a half months of rehabilitation, a juvenile male manatee  was returned to the Florida Keys today by Dolphin Research Center (DRC), Miami Seaquarium (MSQ), and Florida Keys Aquarium Encounter (FKAE).  DRC’s Manatee Rescue Team along with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), FKAE and local residents originally rescued the manatee on October 19, 2021 at Big Pine Key Resort. The manatee had been observed with buoyancy issues and was unable to stay submerged. Later named Waterbear, he was transported to MSQ where it was confirmed that he was suffering gastrointestinal issues. After his initial treatment, he was transported to SeaWorld to complete his rehabilitation. Now healthy, it was time to bring him home. At his release, he weighed 395 pounds and measured approximately 6 feet, 8 inches in length. The group carefully carried him on a stretcher down a boat ramp and cheered when he swam away.

Founded in 1984, Dolphin Research Center is a nonprofit organization and is the licensed Manatee Rescue Team for the Florida Keys. Located at 58901 (mile marker 59) Overseas Highway, Grassy Key, Florida, the center is home to dolphins and sea lions and is open daily for the public to see narrated behavior sessions and educational presentations, and to participate in interactive programs. The center is funded by admission and program fees as well as by private donors and members. For more information, visit www.dolphins.org.