Lucky Number 44: The Story of a Rescued Manatee at SeaWorld Orlando

At SeaWorld Orlando, the 44th manatee to receive care at the Manatee Rehabilitation Area has been given the name "Number 44". This majestic creature was brought in with severe propeller wounds, which were determined to have possibly been caused by a large barge. Despite the gravity of her injuries, Number 44 was fortunate enough to receive medical treatment at SeaWorld.

Brant Gabriel, Supervisor of Rescue at SeaWorld Orlando, explains that the manatee came in with her baby, who was still nursing. The young calf has since been weaned and is now thriving on a diet of lettuce. SeaWorld, one of the largest manatee rescue operations in the world, has rescued 52 manatees in 2022 and continues to provide critical care to these vulnerable creatures.

The manatee population in Florida is facing significant challenges, with the number of deaths due to lack of food caused by toxic algae blooms and pollutants. This has led to a decline in seagrass beds, the primary source of food for manatees. During the winter months, when manatees congregate near warm water sources, the shortage of food becomes even more pronounced.

SeaWorld provides an abundance of food for the manatees in their care, receiving two massive deliveries of romaine lettuce every week. A single manatee can consume between 10 to 15% of its body weight in vegetation per day, and with adult manatees weighing between 2,600 to 3,500 pounds, that's a significant amount of lettuce.

Boat strikes are another major threat to manatees, particularly during the dangerous period from April 1st to November 15th. When Number 44 was brought to SeaWorld, her front left pectoral flipper had been partially amputated, and after several surgeries, the upper flipper was removed. Heidy Clifford, Senior Vet Technician at SeaWorld Orlando, is treating Number 44 with laser therapy and massage therapy to aid in the healing process.

The goal of the SeaWorld team is to eventually release Number 44 back into her natural habitat. Gabriel is confident that with continued medical treatment and rehabilitation, Number 44 will be cleared for release. SeaWorld is a proud member of the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership, working alongside other organizations such as the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, South Florida Museum, and Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park to ensure the well-being of manatees.

As for the name "Number 44", it holds different interpretations in various cultures, with the Egyptians considering it a fortunate number and the Chinese associating it with death. However, the name will soon be replaced as the doctor who has dedicated significant time and energy to Number 44's case will have the opportunity to choose a new name.