January 23, 2025

Heartwarming Manatee Rescue in St. Petersburg

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News Summary

A manatee suffering from cold stress was rescued near the USF St. Pete campus, showcasing community involvement in wildlife conservation. Thanks to a swift response from a marine biology student and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the manatee is now receiving care at ZooTampa. Awareness of cold stress and community compassion were highlighted during this rescue operation.

Manatee Rescue: A Heartwarming Story from St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg is making headlines this week with a rescue tale that’s warmed the hearts of animal lovers everywhere! A manatee, known for its gentle demeanor and playful nature, was saved from the grips of cold stress near the USF St. Pete campus on a chilly Wednesday morning. Thanks to the swift actions of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the dedicated staff at ZooTampa, this majestic creature is now on the path to recovery.

A Rescue in Action

The early hours of the morning were far from ordinary for a USF marine biology student named Kierstyn Benjamin. While buried in her studies at the library, she spotted the distressed manatee struggling in the waters. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, she quickly contacted FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline. Her swift response allowed the FWC to gather vital information and make an immediate move to the scene.

Arriving promptly, FWC utilized the photos and videos Benjamin had provided to assess the situation. When they reached the manatee, it was clear the animal was in a precarious condition. Described as lethargic and underweight, it was displaying visible signs of cold stress, including skin lesions and a heavy algae load clinging to its body. Cold stress in manatees can occur when water temperatures dip below 68 degrees Fahrenheit, leading to a critical need for these marine mammals to find warmer environments.

ZooTampa’s Role in Rehabilitation

The rescued manatee was transported to ZooTampa, where staff have reported being extremely busy this winter caring for other manatees facing similar issues. The center has become a crucial haven for these aquatic giants seeking refuge as temperatures drop. Given the right treatment and care, ZooTampa aims to rehabilitate the manatee and eventually release it back into the wild.

However, the timeline for recovery can vary significantly. Depending on the extent of the cold stress, the rehabilitation process could take anywhere from days to several months. This uncertainty is not uncommon, as each manatee’s condition is unique and requires careful monitoring and tailored care.

Understanding Cold Stress in Manatees

For those unfamiliar, cold stress in manatees manifests through various symptoms. These can include skin bleaching, unresolved sores, or obvious signs of body weight loss—clues that all point to the need for immediate intervention. This winter season has seen a surge in cold-stressed manatees, with FWC rescuing multiple individuals to assure their safety and health.

In fact, more manatees succumbed to similar cold stress issues in early February, prompting a coordinated effort for rescue across different locations. This highlights the pressing need for awareness as temperatures fluctuate throughout the season.

A Community Response

The FWC is always encouraging community members to play an active role in wildlife conservation. If you encounter any wildlife that appears injured or out of the ordinary, remember to call the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922. Every call could be the key to saving a life!

Conclusion

St. Petersburg has showcased what a community united can achieve when it comes to wildlife conservation. With dedicated individuals like Kierstyn Benjamin and the tireless team at ZooTampa, there’s hope on the horizon for manatees affected by cold stress. As temperatures continue to rise and fall, let’s remain vigilant and support these precious beings who share our waters.