Manatee Rescued from Florida Storm Drain Recovering at SeaWorld Orlando

The 410-pound manatee was found trapped while seeking warmer waters.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A manatee that became trapped in a Florida storm drain while searching for warmer waters is now recovering at SeaWorld Orlando after a successful rescue operation. The 410-pound marine mammal was discovered by local authorities and transported to the theme park's rehabilitation facility.

Why it matters

Manatee populations in Florida have been threatened by habitat loss, boat strikes, and cold stress, making rescues like this critical to the conservation of the vulnerable species. The incident highlights the challenges manatees face in urban coastal areas as they migrate to warmer waters during the winter months.

The details

The manatee, estimated to weigh around 410 pounds, was found trapped in a storm drain in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Local authorities were alerted to the situation and worked to carefully extract the animal and transport it to SeaWorld Orlando's rehabilitation center for treatment and care.

  • The manatee was discovered trapped in the storm drain on February 10, 2026.
  • The rescue operation took place on February 11, 2026.

The players

SeaWorld Orlando

A theme park and marine life rescue and rehabilitation center located in Orlando, Florida.

Fort Lauderdale authorities

Local law enforcement and emergency responders who discovered and assisted in the rescue of the trapped manatee.

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What they’re saying

“Rescues like this are critical to the conservation of manatees, a vulnerable species facing numerous threats in Florida's coastal areas.”

— Dr. Naomi Rose, Marine Mammal Scientist, Animal Welfare Institute

What’s next

The manatee will undergo a full veterinary evaluation and rehabilitation process at SeaWorld Orlando to ensure it is healthy and can be safely released back into its natural habitat.

The takeaway

This rescue highlights the ongoing efforts to protect Florida's manatee population and the importance of public vigilance and cooperation with authorities to report any sightings of distressed marine life.