410-Pound Manatee Rescued from Florida Storm Drain, Now Recovering at SeaWorld

The male manatee was spotted by a worker doing a survey on storm drain access in Melbourne Beach.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 410-pound manatee was rescued from a storm drain in Melbourne Beach, Florida, after a worker spotted the stuck sea cow during a survey. Multiple rescue units and officials from various agencies worked together to free the manatee, which was then taken to SeaWorld Orlando for rehabilitation. The manatee is showing positive signs of recovery and is being cared for in one of the park's medical pools.

Why it matters

Manatees are a protected species that have faced significant population declines in recent years, with a mass starvation event in 2021 leading to over 1,100 recorded deaths. This rescue effort highlights the ongoing efforts to support the recovery of the manatee population in Florida.

The details

The manatee was found stuck in a 'baffle box' within the storm drain system in Melbourne Beach. Crews from Brevard County Fire Rescue, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the University of Florida, and even a local towing service worked together to free the 410-pound male manatee and transport it to SeaWorld Orlando for rehabilitation.

  • The manatee was rescued on Tuesday, February 11, 2026.

The players

Melbourne Beach

The city in Florida where the manatee was rescued from a storm drain.

Brevard County Fire Rescue

The fire rescue units that assisted in the manatee rescue operation.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

The state agency that helped coordinate the rescue effort.

University of Florida

The institution that provided support and expertise during the rescue.

Jack's Wrecker Service

The local towing service that assisted in the rescue operation.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're in the process of improving the storm drain across Melbourne Beach. Our people were doing a survey. And one of the surveyors noticed a manatee in what is called a baffle box.”

— Terry Cronin, Vice Mayor of Melbourne Beach (WESH)

“He's breathing on his own, moving independently and showing interest in food. Our teams are adjusting water levels to support buoyancy and comfort as part of his care.”

— Stephanie Bechara, Spokesperson, SeaWorld Orlando (NBC News)

What’s next

The manatee will continue to receive rehabilitation and care at SeaWorld Orlando, with the goal of eventually returning it to the wild once it has fully recovered.

The takeaway

This rescue operation highlights the ongoing efforts to protect and support the recovery of the endangered manatee population in Florida, which has faced significant challenges in recent years due to factors like starvation events. The collaboration between various agencies and organizations demonstrates the commitment to preserving this iconic marine species.