Rescuers Save Manatee Mom, Calf from Crab Trap

A quick thinking “citizen scientist” is credited for helping save a trapped mother manatee and her calf Wednesday morning.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said it received a tip about the two creatures stuck in a crab trap in Clearwater through the Wildlife Alert Hotline. Biologists from FWC’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute and staff from the Clearwater Marine Aquarium immediately swung into action.

“(They) found the distressed female manatee and removed a crab trap rope that entangled both of her flippers,” FWC’s Facebook page said.

Brandon Basino, the research institute’s spokesman, said rescue crews arrived on the scene around 11 a.m. Wednesday and made sure both mother and baby were transported to Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo for treatment. The zoo operates a manatee hospital as part of its conservation efforts.

“By 3 p.m., both manatees were receiving care at the zoo,” Basino said.

Both animals will be released back into the wild once they are recovered from the ordeal.

Residents who spot wildlife in trouble are asked to call the state’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922). Tips can also be texted to Tip@MyFWC.com, or by calling #FWCand *FWC via cell phone if you see a distressed manatee. Those who wish to support research, rescue and rehabilitation efforts can also donate $5 for a manatee decal.

Photo Credit: An injured manatee is secured for transport following a Wednesday rescue. Photo courtesy of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.