SeaWorld releases rehabilitated manatee back into the wild

VERO BEACH, Fla. — SeaWorld continues to do its part in rescuing and rehabilitating manatees in Florida and just recently completed another successful manatee release in Central Florida.

Following a full rehabilitation at SeaWorld Orlando, “Ciabatta” was returned to the wild at Round Island Riverside Park in Vero Beach last week.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

The male manatee, which is over 10 feet long, was rescued in Brevard County last winter.

ExpandAutoplay

Image 1 of 5

SeaWorld 'Ciabatta' Manatee Release Vero Beach (SeaWorld)

Ciabatta was found in poor physical condition and had buoyancy issues. Both issues were associated with the unusual mortality event affecting manatees on the East Coast in 2021.

Read: Cheers! Free beer returns to SeaWorld Orlando for the summer

Ciabatta gained 386 pounds during recovery, weighing a robust 1380 pounds at the time of his release.

Please report injured, sick or dead manatees to the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922.

Read: Brightline trains to chug along by holidays, but without passengers

Florida residents can show their support for manatees by purchasing a “Save the Manatee” license plate at myfwc.com/research/manatee/trust-fund/license-plate.

Read: Central Florida housing groups team up to call for more affordable options

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

©2022 Cox Media Group