About FWRI

FWC researchers, in collaboration with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and University of Florida, have conducted annual winter health assessments on manatees in Brevard County since December 2021. These health exams are part of our monitoring efforts during and after the Unusual Mortality Event on the Atlantic coast. Information gathered from the exams helps us to better understand health impacts associated with significant habitat shifts within the Indian River Lagoon.

In the 2023 assessments, researchers encountered a familiar face, “Pachyderm”, who was identified by microchips that were implanted when she was rescued and treated for cold stress as a juvenile in 2011. "Pachyderm’s" 2023 health exam revealed that she was pregnant and had gained almost 600 lbs since her release in 2012. She became part of the IRL habitat study and shared her habitat use and travel routes with us by way of a satellite-linked GPS radio tag. She stayed in the northern Indian River Lagoon throughout 2024. Unfortunately, "Pachyderm" did not carry the calf to term and during the springtime was observed mating.

At her next assessment in December 2024, she was in excellent body condition, suspected to be pregnant again, and was 161 lbs heavier than the year before. During the night of 10 March of this year, she gave birth to a healthy calf! Data from manatees such as "Pachyderm" provide valuable insight into the first steps towards recovery of IRL habitat and manatee health and resilience.