A 410-pound manatee was rescued from a storm drain in Florida after becoming trapped while seeking warmer waters and is now recovering at SeaWorld Orlando. The incident highlights ongoing challenges in manatee conservation amid environmental changes.
The male manatee was discovered stuck in a storm drain on Monday, February 9, 2026, in Melbourne Beach, Florida. A surveyor working on drain improvement projects noticed the animal in what is known as a baffle box, prompting immediate action. Vice Mayor Terry Cronin confirmed the sighting, which led to a coordinated rescue effort involving multiple agencies.
On Tuesday, February 10, rescue teams from Brevard County Fire Rescue, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the University of Florida, and even Jack’s Wrecker Service converged on the scene. Using specialized equipment, they carefully extracted the 410-pound sea cow from the drain. The operation required precise coordination to ensure the manatee’s safety, as storm drains are designed to collect debris and can be hazardous for large marine mammals.
After the rescue, the manatee was transported to SeaWorld Orlando, where it is currently housed in one of the park’s medical pools. Spokesperson Stephanie Bechara reported that the animal is breathing on its own, moving independently, and showing interest in food. Veterinary teams are adjusting water levels to support buoyancy and comfort as part of its rehabilitation process.
Manatees are a protected species under federal and state laws, and this incident occurs against a backdrop of recent conservation crises. In 2021, over 1,100 manatees died primarily due to starvation, linked to the loss of seagrass habitats. However, efforts have shown progress, with deaths declining to 565 in 2024 and 555 in 2023, according to wildlife officials.
SeaWorld Orlando plays a key role in manatee rescue and rehabilitation, having saved 56 animals in 2025 and already taking in seven this year. The facility works to stabilize and nurse injured or stranded manatees back to health with the goal of returning them to their natural habitats. This case underscores the importance of such programs in preserving vulnerable wildlife populations.
The rescue also raises awareness about human infrastructure impacts on marine life, particularly as manatees migrate to warmer waters during colder months. Climate variability and coastal development can increase such entrapment risks, necessitating ongoing monitoring and public education to prevent similar incidents.
Looking ahead, the rescued manatee will continue to receive care until it is deemed fit for release. Wildlife experts emphasize that successful rehabilitation depends on the animal’s recovery progress and environmental conditions. This event serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between urban expansion and wildlife conservation in Florida’s ecosystems.
