GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) — SeaWorld Orlando confirmed a distressed female manatee was rescued from the Tar River on Monday, Nov. 18, 2024.
They said the animal weighed 855 pounds and was almost nine feet long. Sporadic sightings over the past few weeks in the Pamlico and Tar Rivers prompted the response.
Officials said water temperatures in the low 60s required immediate response as manatees become cold-stressed when waters get below 68 degrees.
The manatee was taken to SeaWorld in Orlando to be rehabilitated by care teams with veterinary support. The timely intervention of the rescue teams ensures the manatee will receive the critical care needed for recovery. The manatee also had a healing watercraft-related injury to its right side.
