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Dolphin Research Center staff prepare a manatee calf to be transported from Key Largo to SeaWorld Orlando on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.<\/p>\n
Dolphin Research Center<\/p>\n
An emaciated manatee calf was rescued on the Atlantic Ocean side of the Florida Keys on Tuesday and sent to SeaWorld Orlando for rehabilitation.<\/p>\n
The male calf, estimated to be a little more than a year old, was found in critical condition at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, said Allie Proskovec, spokeswoman with the Dolphin Research Center, a marine-mammal park and rescue group located in Grassy Key in the Lower Keys.<\/p>\n
The manatee\u2019s mother was in the area, but Proskovec said there were no signs that she was nursing the calf.<\/p>\n
A Dolphin Research Center veterinarian administered preliminary medical care to the animal on site, and it was transported to Orlando, Proskovec said. The manatee \u201cwill receive intensive, around-the-clock veterinary care and rehabilitation\u201d at SeaWorld, Proskovec said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis was a critical rescue effort where rapid response and collaboration were essential,\u201d Proskovec said in a statement. \u201cOur team worked quickly to provide life-saving support and ensure the calf has the best possible chance for recovery.\u201d<\/p>\n
Manatees usually live to about 25 years old, but have been known to live into their 50s. Calves and mothers usually stay together for two years, and the calves depend on the mothers not only for nutrition, but to learn how to independently feed and navigate, according to SeaWorld.<\/p>\n
Anyone seeing a manatee or other marine mammal in distress is asked to call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission\u2019s hotline at 1-888-404-3922.<\/p>\n
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