Manatee Rescued from Storm Drain After Seeking Warmth
In Melbourne Beach, Florida, a fortunate rescue operation saved a 410-pound manatee trapped in a storm drain. The young manatee sought warmth during recent cold weather but ended up in a perilous situation.
Details of the Rescue
On a typical day, a crew from Haley Ward, Inc. was conducting a stormwater assessment when they unexpectedly discovered the manatee inside a storm baffle box. This structure is typically designed to filter out debris, but it became a trap for the marine animal.
Organized Response Efforts
The crew promptly notified the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Within minutes, a coordinated effort began, involving various agencies:
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
- Brevard County Fire & Rescue
- Brevard County Emergency Management
- UF Vets Animal Technical Rescue Team
- Melbourne Beach Police Department
Rescue teams worked diligently for several hours. They removed the storm cover and employed flashlights to locate the trapped manatee. To create enough space for extraction, they drilled into the road, cutting through asphalt to access the pipes.
Successful Extraction
By 9 p.m., the rescue team succeeded in lifting the manatee from the storm drain. The animal was then transported to SeaWorld for observation and rehabilitation.
Condition of the Manatee
Upon initial assessment by FWC, it was noted that the juvenile manatee was underweight and had several open wounds on its body. Despite its condition, the manatee displayed an interest in food during its first night under care.
Important Contact Information
FWC urges the public to call their wildlife alert hotline at 1-888-404-3922 if they encounter an injured or distressed manatee. Prompt reporting can significantly increase the chances of saving a marine life in trouble.
