Rescued manatee released back into wild after Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens saves its life

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. —

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens honored Manatee Awareness Month in a big way this year.

The manatee, Lusia, who spent three months at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens’ Manatee Critical Care Center was released back into the wild Thursday.

Lusia was rescued Aug. 22 by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission with the help of the Volusia County Marine Mammal Stranding team.

Lusia suffered fractured ribs, a punctured lung, and a linear wound across her back, all from a suspected boat strike.

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Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens manatee rescued, released back into wild Luisa, manatee who was rescued Aug. 22 spent three months at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens Manatee Critical Care Center. Luisa was released back into the wild, Thurs. Nov. 19. (Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens)

Craig Miller, Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens’ curator of mammals, said:

“When we received Lusia, we were guarded about her survival due to the extent of her injuries. Our vet team started supportive care right away and eventually worked to alleviate the trapped air from her punctured lung, and our keeper staff continually cared for and monitored her. She maintained a good appetite and behavior overall, which helped in her recovery. It’s great to finally release her, and we hope Lusia’s story reminds all of us boaters to remain aware of manatees and other marine life out on the water.”

Manatee Awareness Month is a great reminder for boaters, and the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens provided tips to keep manatees safe:

-          Slow down during water activities as much as possible

-          Always follow posted speed zones

-          Wear polarized glasses to help spot manatees

-          Stay a safe distance away if manatees are spotted

-          Remain in deep water channels whenever possible

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens’ Manatee Critical Care Center is the zoo’s largest regional conservation initiative, which has cared for 23 manatees since opening in 2017.

They provide acute care, lifesaving medical treatment and are a rehabilitation facility for rescued manatees.

Lusia is the third release for the zoo in 2020, and the 16th total since opening the center.

To report an injured marine mammal, call the FWC hotline at 1-888-404-3922, or dial *FWC on a cellular device.

Cox Media Group