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ORLANDO, Florida – An orphaned manatee calf was rescued yesterday afternoon by the
Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, and then
transported to SeaWorld Orlando late yesterday for rehabilitation and
long-term
care. The young calf was spotted swimming alone by a private citizen
prior to its rescue from Sykes Creek off Merritt Island, Florida.
Measuring approximately 36 inches long
and weighing approximately 35 pounds, the male manatee was rescued due
to its young age -– the calf is only estimated to be between one and two
weeks old, and its mother was nowhere to be
found.
Upon arrival at SeaWorld Orlando, animal
care experts took blood samples, gave the manatee antibiotics and
observed his condition overnight. The calf will receive regular tube
feedings, and will continue to be monitored closely
during the next few days.
So far in 2013, SeaWorld has rescued
eight manatees and returned one back to their natural habitat. In
collaboration with the government and other members of accredited
stranding networks, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment operates
one of the world’s most respected programs to rescue ill and injured
marine animals, with the goal to rehabilitate and return them to the
ocean.
SeaWorld animal experts have helped more than 22,000 animals in need - ill, injured, orphaned and abandoned - for more than 40 years.
SeaWorld animal experts have helped more than 22,000 animals in need - ill, injured, orphaned and abandoned - for more than 40 years.
PHOTO and VIDEO credit: SeaWorld Orlando
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