Featured Image Credit: WOKV
By: Sarah Sharkey
A young manatee was recently released back into the wild in Jacksonville, Florida. The manatee, Vilanzo, was rescued at Vilano Beach in St. Johns County by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in March.
The young male was suffering from cold stress, exhaustion, and dehydration. He was also underweight and covered in boating scars. He just seemed very dazed and confused, which was unexpected. An aerial crew doing a North Atlantic Right Whale survey saw him the day before and noted that he seemed happy and healthy with no visible injuries.
Within 24 hours, he was acting not okay. His lethargic activities prompted rescuers to bring him to Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens for rehabilitation. The manatee recovered quickly during his 8-week stay at the Zoo.
During the release, Vilanzo was so excited that he started splashing everyone with his large tail. Within a minute of the release, he was back out in the water enjoying his freedom.
It was lucky that he was able to rest and recuperate in the comfort of the zoo. It is unclear what might have happened if he had not been rescued. Thank you FWC and the Jacksonville Zoo for doing your job so well!
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