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

Coordinated rescue effort involved multiple agencies to free the protected sea cow

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A 410-pound manatee was rescued from a storm drain in Melbourne Beach, Florida, after a worker spotted the animal seeking warmer waters. Multiple fire rescue units, officials from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the University of Florida, and a towing service worked together to free the manatee, which was then transported to SeaWorld Orlando for rehabilitation.

Why it matters

Manatees are a protected species in Florida, and the state has seen a high number of manatee deaths in recent years due to a mass starvation event. This rescue highlights the ongoing efforts to care for and rehabilitate these vulnerable marine mammals.

The details

The male manatee was found stuck in a storm drain during a survey of infrastructure improvements in Melbourne Beach. The crews were able to safely remove the 410-pound sea cow and transport it to SeaWorld Orlando, where it is being cared for in one of the park's medical pools. SeaWorld staff report the manatee is breathing on its own, moving independently, and showing interest in food as part of its rehabilitation.

  • On Tuesday, a worker with the city of Melbourne Beach spotted the manatee in a storm drain.
  • Multiple agencies and crews convened on the scene to rescue the manatee.

The players

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting Florida's wildlife, including manatees.

University of Florida

The state's flagship public research university, which often assists with wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts.

Jack's Wrecker Service

A local towing company that provided equipment and support for the manatee rescue operation.

SeaWorld Orlando

The theme park and marine life rescue organization that is now caring for the rescued manatee and working to rehabilitate it.

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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-TV)

“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 (wral.com)

What’s next

SeaWorld Orlando staff will continue to monitor and care for the rescued manatee, working to stabilize and rehabilitate the animal so it can eventually be returned to the wild.

The takeaway

This rescue operation highlights the ongoing efforts to protect and care for Florida's vulnerable manatee population, which has faced significant challenges in recent years. It demonstrates the importance of collaboration between various agencies and organizations to respond to wildlife emergencies and support the recovery of these protected marine mammals.