By 1808Delaware
In an inspiring display of collaborative conservation, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, alongside other members of the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP), has played a pivotal role in the successful release of five orphaned manatees back into their native Florida waters. This momentous event at Blue Spring State Park marks the culmination of a years-long journey of rehabilitation and underscores the critical role of zoological organizations in wildlife conservation.
A Lifeline for Manatees
The journey of these gentle giants began between 2020 and 2021 when they were rescued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and MRP partners. They were found in vulnerable states, orphaned and in dire need of care. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, along with SeaWorld Orlando, Brevard Zoo, Georgia Aquarium, Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Save the Manatee Club, have worked tirelessly to nurse these manatees back to health.
The release operation was a testament to the dedication and expertise of the teams involved. Each manatee, now equipped with a GPS tracking device, will continue to be monitored to ensure their successful acclimation to the wild. This initiative comes at a crucial time for Florida manatees, who face numerous threats both natural and man-made.
The Columbus Zoo’s Unique Contribution
The Columbus Zoo stands out as one of only three facilities outside Florida, alongside the Georgia Aquarium and Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, capable of providing specialized care for manatees. As a second stage rehabilitation facility, the Zoo offers a temporary haven for these manatees, nurturing them until they are strong enough for release. This role not only highlights the Zoo’s commitment to wildlife conservation but also its unique expertise in caring for such specialized species.
Becky Ellsworth, curator of the Zoo’s Shores & Aquarium region, expressed the collective emotion of all those involved in the rehabilitation process. The joy and hope felt in returning these manatees to their natural habitat reflect the broader mission of the Columbus Zoo and its partners: to make a meaningful impact on wildlife conservation.
Individual Journeys of Hope
Each manatee’s story is a testament to the perseverance and care of the teams involved. From “Squirrel,” found at a mere 66 pounds and rehabilitated at facilities including the Columbus Zoo to reach a healthy 960 pounds, to “TinkTink,” whose journey also involved care at the Georgia Aquarium, their individual stories of recovery are inspiring.
These manatees, named Squirrel, Lizzie, MaryKate, Clank, and TinkTink, have not only been given a second chance at life but also serve as ambassadors for their species, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts and the impact of human activity on wildlife.
Moving Forward Together
The collaborative effort in rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing these manatees underscores the power of partnership in conservation. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, together with its partners in the MRP, demonstrates the impact that dedicated organizations can have on the preservation of wildlife. As these manatees return to their home in Florida, the Zoo’s commitment to conservation and the welfare of animals continues to inspire and make a difference in the natural world.
