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Manatee Rescue

Wildlife Alert Hotline Logo

Report a Sick, Injured, Dead, or Tagged Manatee

Call FWC's Wildlife Alert Toll-Free Number: 1-888-404-FWCC (1-888-404-3922), press "7" to speak with an operator.

Cellular phone customers: *FWC or #FWC

Manatee Rescue Network

The FWC responds to reports of distressed manatees by investigating reports from the public and implementing rescues for those animals in need of intervention. If intervention is needed, biologists work to assist the manatee and either release it on site or safely capture and transport the manatee to one of the four critical care facilities for treatment. The ultimate goal is to work within a collaborative network of partnering agencies and organizations to rescue, rehabilitate, and release sick or injured manatees. 

Manatee in water

Reasons for Manatee Rescue

Learn more about the reasons that FWC biologists rescue manatees. 

Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership

The Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP) is a cooperative of agencies, organizations, and oceanaria that rescue, rehabilitate, release, and monitor Florida manatees. Learn more about this program and the partner rehabilitation facilities.  

Manatee Rescue
Manatee Capture Boat

Rescue Equipment

Learn about the equipment that biologists use to rescue manatees. 

Releases

Learn more about how rehabilitated manatees are returned to the wild.

Manatee Release

Manatee Safety Tips

It is important for boat operators to be on the lookout for manatees and other marine life in Florida waters. FWC offers some helpful tips.

Support Manatee Research and Rescue