Fort Pierce - Friday July 29, 2022: After successful rehabilitation at SeaWorld Orlando, "Patchouli” was medically cleared for released at the Manatee Observation & Education Center in Fort Pierce in early July.
Rescued last winter in Brevard County, the 10.5 ft. female manatee was observed to be in poor body condition and having buoyancy issues, both associated with the unusual mortality event affecting manatees on the east coast.
Patchouli gained a solid 450lbs during recovery, weighing 1700lbs at her release on July 7th.
You can report injured, sick or dead manatees to the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline: 888-404-3922.
Photo courtesy Manatee Observation Center