A 410-pound manatee trapped in a storm drain in Melbourne Beach has been successfully rescued after authorities responded to a call about the animal seeking warmth during an unusually cold winter in Florida. The rescue operation involved multiple agencies and organizations that collaborated for several hours to free the manatee, emphasizing the community’s commitment to wildlife conservation.
Brevard County Fire Rescue (BCFR) announced the successful rescue this week, detailing the involvement of various local agencies, including Indialantic Fire Rescue, Melbourne Beach Fire Department, and the University of Florida’s Veterinary Emergency Treatment Services. In a post on social media, BCFR stated, “It took a village to free the sea cow.” The manatee, measuring approximately seven feet in length, appeared to be in fair condition but has been transferred to the SeaWorld Rescue Center for further observation and care.
The Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI), part of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), confirmed that the juvenile manatee was underweight and had several open wounds on its underside near the tail and flippers. Fortunately, FWRI reported that the manatee showed interest in food during its first night in care, indicating a positive sign for its recovery.
The rescue operation took place shortly after BCFR completed large-animal rescue training, highlighting the importance of preparedness in emergency situations. BCFR noted, “Sometimes, timing is everything! As training wrapped up, BCFR and UF instructors were called in to assist with a trapped manatee in Melbourne Beach. This is a perfect example of how important continuous training and education opportunities are for Fire Rescue!”
FWRI also urged the public to report any injured, distressed, or deceased manatees by calling the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922), as these calls can be crucial in saving an animal’s life.
The cold weather in Florida has not only impacted manatees. Over the past few weeks, residents have reported thousands of invasive green iguanas to the FWC. This surge in removals is attributed to a recent cold snap and a temporary executive order that permitted the public to collect cold-stunned iguanas without a permit. When temperatures drop near or below freezing, these reptiles can become immobilized, often falling from trees as they temporarily lose muscle control.
The successful rescue of the manatee underscores the collaborative efforts of various organizations and the importance of community engagement in wildlife conservation. As temperatures fluctuate, such incidents serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by local wildlife and the need for vigilance in protecting these vulnerable species.
