Manatee rescue attempt in St. James City
Last Saturday, St. James City resident Gary Stone was cruising in his boat when he spotted a manatee that appeared to be in trouble.
“I saw a large manatee and calf in the water,” Stone said. “The manatee had apparently been injured (probably by a boat propellor) and was struggling in the water.
“I take the back way out of Cherry Estates near Galt Island Road,” Stone said. “It opens into a bay right near the power lines. I immediately spotted the manatee and when I got close I saw the mother in great distress flailing about.”
Stone called Manatee Rescue.
Manatee Rescue is an operation run by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The FWC hires interns to assist with manatee rescue, carcass salvage and research for 10 counties in Southwest Florida.
“Unfortunately, they (FWC and Manatee Rescue) didn’t arrive until Monday morning,” Stone said. “It was about 10 a.m. when FWC finally arrived and then Manatee Rescue showed up shortly afterwards. I took a few pictures and they took the mother away.”
Rachel F. Nelson, the director of public relations at the Lowry Park Zoo, reported Thursday, “I’m terribly sorry to report that the animal was in grave condition and did not survive her injuries. She passed away yesterday, late afternoon. Thank you for all of your efforts; they are appreciated!
Report injured manatees to the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922.