SeaWorld Orlando has reached a milestone by successfully rescuing 1,000 manatees, marking a significant development in marine conservation efforts. This achievement reflects ongoing initiatives focused on rescue, rehabilitation, and return efforts for this vulnerable species.
Collaborative Conservation Efforts
As part of the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP), SeaWorld Orlando works with federal, state, and nonprofit organizations to rescue, rehabilitate, and release manatees back into their natural habitat. These coordinated efforts contribute to conservation initiatives across Florida, addressing challenges faced by manatees and promoting a healthy ecosystem. In 2024 alone, SeaWorld Orlando rescued 61 manatees and successfully rehabilitated and returned 38 of them to the wild.
“Manatees are an iconic part of Florida’s ecosystem, and we are honored to play a key role in their conservation. By rescuing, rehabilitating and hopefully returning these animals, we not only save individual lives but also inspire our guests to join us in protecting these amazing creatures,” Jon Peterson, Park President of SeaWorld Orlando said in a press release.
Public Education and Community Involvement
In addition to rescue and rehabilitation efforts, SeaWorld Orlando provides educational programs on manatee conservation. Through in-park programs, partnerships with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), and community outreach initiatives, the park aims to inform the public about safe boating practices, environmental stewardship, and conservation measures.
Reckless and Churro
A notable example of manatee rehabilitation is the case of Reckless and Churro, a mother-daughter pair. Rescued in 2022, Reckless sustained a severe boat strike that fractured her shoulder, leaving her in critical condition. Her newborn calf, Churro, was just one to two days old at the time. Over 20 months, veterinary teams performed multiple procedures and provided thousands of hours of specialized care to ensure their recovery. Their return to the wild demonstrates the role of rehabilitation efforts in species conservation.
“Reaching 1,000 manatee rescues is an incredible achievement and reflects the decades of dedication from our expert rescue team, who have devoted their careers to ensuring the survival of Florida’s manatee population,” Dr. Joseph Gaspard, Vice President of Zoological Operations at SeaWorld Orlando and Vice Chair of the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership said. “The support of the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership has been instrumental in our efforts, and together, we are making strides toward securing a future for these gentle giants.”
Supporting Manatee Conservation
As SeaWorld Orlando acknowledges this milestone, the public is encouraged to engage in manatee conservation efforts. Actions such as practicing safe boating, reporting distressed or stranded animals, and spreading awareness can contribute to protecting these marine mammals.
Ongoing Animal Rescue Efforts
For over 60 years, rescue teams have assisted more than 41,000 sick, injured, and orphaned animals, supporting their rehabilitation and release. This work is made possible through collaboration with partner organizations, visitors, Pass Members, and team members. Rescue teams are available year-round to respond to animals in need.
For more information about SeaWorld Orlando’s rescue efforts and how to contribute to manatee conservation, visit SeaWorld.com.