Manatees, with their gentle nature and slow movements, often find themselves in perilous situations. Thankfully, numerous organizations and dedicated individuals work tirelessly to rescue and rehabilitate these magnificent creatures. Here are some inspiring stories of manatees that have been given a second chance at life.

Tink Tink: The Orphaned Calf

In December 2021, a very small female calf named Tink Tink was spotted at Blue Spring State Park, Florida. She was orphaned and showing signs of cold stress, with lesions on her snout and flippers. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Volusia County rescued her and brought her to SeaWorld Orlando for treatment. After receiving supplemental fluids and medication, Tink Tink began to eat on her own. She has since been moved to the Georgia Aquarium for continued rehabilitation and is on her way to a full recovery.

Greg and Jennifer: From Pets to the Wild

Greg and Jennifer were two Amazonian manatees rescued by the Rainforest Awareness Rescue Education Center (RAREC) in Peru. They had been kept as pets before being brought to the center in 2017. After six years of rehabilitation, they were released back into the wild in 2023. Their release marked the beginning of a two-year monitoring project to track their movements and ensure their adaptation to the natural environment.

Moira-Rose: Overcoming Cold Stress

Moira-Rose, a large pregnant female manatee, was rescued in February 2021 due to severe cold stress. She had white lesions on her body and was in critical condition. After a month of rehabilitation, she was released back into the wild in March 2021. Remarkably, she returned to Blue Spring State Park the following winter with a healthy calf, showcasing the success of her rehabilitation.

Bui and Rick: Unique Challenges

Bui and Rick are two other Amazonian manatees rescued by RAREC. Bui was found on a ship being trafficked with other fish, while Rick was rescued from a local fisherman’s house. Both manatees faced unique challenges during their rehabilitation, including dietary issues and the need for specialized care. Despite these challenges, they are now thriving and are expected to be released in 2025.

How to Contribute to Manatee Protection

Protecting manatees requires collective effort and awareness. Here are some guidelines on how you can contribute to their protection and avoid accidents:

1. Report Injured or Distressed Manatees: If you see a manatee that appears injured or in distress, report it to the local wildlife authorities. In Florida, you can call the FWC at 1-888-404-3922.

2. Follow Boating Guidelines: Manatees are often injured by boat propellers. Follow posted speed limits and be vigilant in manatee zones.

3. Avoid Harassing Manatees: Never chase, poke, or disturb manatees. Observe them from a distance and avoid making loud noises that could startle them.

4. Participate in Conservation Efforts: Support organizations dedicated to manatee conservation through donations, volunteering, or participating in awareness campaigns.

5. Educate Others: Spread the word about manatee protection. Educate friends, family, and community members about the importance of preserving these gentle giants.

By following these guidelines and supporting conservation efforts, we can help ensure that manatees continue to thrive in their natural habitats.