SeaWorld Orlando has successfully returned a mother-daughter manatee pair, Reckless and Churro, back to their natural home in Broward County, Florida. This journey back to the wild comes after a year of incredible care at SeaWorld’s Rescue Center.
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Reckless and Churro’s story began in May 2022, when they were rescued in Florida. Reckless, the mother manatee, had been severely injured by a boat, leaving her in critical condition. Her injuries were life-threatening, with a shattered shoulder and exposed deep muscle and tissue. Churro, her baby, was just 1-2 days old, still with her umbilical cord attached, when she came into SeaWorld’s care.
The SeaWorld veterinary team spent over 20 months, providing 12 lifesaving procedures and more than 17,000 hours of specialized care. They worked tirelessly to ensure that Reckless and Churro could stay together. This was essential for Churro’s growth, as baby manatees rely on their mothers for everything from food to survival skills.
Dr. Stacy DiRocco, a senior veterinarian at SeaWorld Orlando, shared that Reckless’s chances of survival were initially very low. But the team’s determination and Reckless’s fighting spirit led to an inspiring recovery. Reckless underwent multiple surgeries, including an amputation, and received intensive medical care, including cold laser therapy and gastroscopy.
Both manatees were fitted with a special tracking belt before their return to the wild. This is crucial for monitoring their health, especially since manatee populations are currently facing significant challenges.
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SeaWorld Orlando plays a major role in manatee rescue operations. With the largest capacity in the United States, their Rescue Center can care for up to 60 manatees at a time. They have state-of-the-art facilities and a highly skilled veterinary team. To date, SeaWorld has helped over 1,300 manatees, contributing significantly to manatee conservation efforts.
The successful return of Reckless and Churro to their natural habitat is a beacon of hope. It shows what can be achieved with dedication, expertise, and teamwork in wildlife conservation.
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