Following a dramatic rescue from a Melbourne Beach storm drain, the Melby the manatee release was a success thanks to the expert care at SeaWorld Orlando.
A story of potential tragedy reached a joyous conclusion as the manatee known as “Melby” was successfully returned to the wild. In partnership with local and state officials, SeaWorld Orlando released Melby into the Indian River Lagoon near Ballard Park, just a short distance from where his journey began.
Melby the Manatee Release
Melby first made headlines on February 9, 2026, when Melbourne Beach Public Works crews discovered him trapped inside a stormwater junction box. Cold-stressed, underweight, and unable to escape, the manatee’s plight sparked a massive multi-agency rescue effort. Following his rescue, he was transported to SeaWorld Orlando, which operates the largest manatee critical care facility in the country.
“The goal with every rescue is to rehabilitate animals and help them regain their health and thrive so they can return to their native environment, and that is exactly what is happening with Melby,” said Brant Gabriel, vice president of zoological operations at SeaWorld Orlando. “It’s also inspiring to see the community come together to support his rescue, rehabilitation and return. We are so happy that Melby has made such strong progress and is now back in his home waters.”
During his two-month stay at SeaWorld Orlando, Melby received specialized medical care and was treated for cold stress. He gained over 100 pounds on a diet consisting primarily of romaine lettuce, reaching a healthy release weight of 515 pounds to allow the Melby the Manatee release.
“From the moment Melby arrived, we knew his case was special, not just because of how he was rescued, but because of how many people were rooting for him,” said Dr. Lydia Staggs, SeaWorld Orlando senior staff veterinarian. “Watching him regain strength each day and now return to the wild is exactly why we do this work.”
SeaWorld Orlando
This successful release highlights SeaWorld Orlando’s ongoing commitment to animal welfare and conservation. In fact, SeaWorld Orlando’s dedication to these standards was recently recognized on a broader scale, as the park’s AZA accreditation was renewed for another five years, ensuring they continue to meet the highest benchmarks in animal care.
So far this year, SeaWorld Orlando has rescued 21 manatees, contributing to a company-wide total of 1,081 manatees rescued since 1976. Every visit to the park helps fund these vital rescue, conservation, and research efforts that protect Florida’s iconic wildlife.
For more theme park-related news and information, visit MSM News.
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