410-Pound Manatee Rescued From Florida Storm Drain

The protected sea cow is recovering at SeaWorld Orlando after a coordinated rescue effort.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A 410-pound manatee was rescued from a storm drain in Melbourne Beach, Florida, after a worker spotted the protected sea creature while surveying the area. Multiple rescue teams, including fire rescue units, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the University of Florida, and a towing service, worked together to free the manatee and transport it to SeaWorld Orlando, where it is now receiving care in one of the park's medical pools.

Why it matters

Manatees are a protected species in Florida, and this rescue highlights the ongoing efforts to support the population, which has faced significant challenges in recent years, including a mass starvation event in 2021 that resulted in over 1,100 deaths. The successful rescue and rehabilitation of this manatee is a positive step in the conservation of the species.

The details

The manatee was discovered stuck in a storm drain in Melbourne Beach, where the city was in the process of improving the drainage system. A worker noticed the 410-pound sea cow during a survey of the area and alerted the authorities. A coordinated rescue effort involving multiple agencies and organizations was launched to safely remove the manatee from the drain and transport it to SeaWorld Orlando for medical care.

  • The manatee was discovered on Tuesday, February 12, 2026.
  • The rescue operation took place on the same day, February 12, 2026.

The players

Melbourne Beach

The city where the manatee was found stuck in a storm drain.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

The state agency that assisted in the rescue effort.

University of Florida

An organization that participated in the rescue operation.

Jack's Wrecker Service

A towing service that helped in the rescue effort.

SeaWorld Orlando

The facility where the rescued manatee is now receiving care and rehabilitation.

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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 (newser.com)

What’s next

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

The takeaway

This rescue operation highlights the ongoing efforts to protect and support the manatee population in Florida, which has faced significant challenges in recent years. The successful collaboration between various agencies and organizations demonstrates the commitment to the conservation of this protected species.