Researchers from Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute helped release a 700-pound manatee named Churro at Blue Spring State Park in Clearwater, Florida. Churro had previously been rescued along with her mother, Reckless, from the Indian River Lagoon in 2022 after Reckless sustained severe watercraft injuries. The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Volusia County Marine Mammal Stranding Team transferred the manatees to SeaWorld Orlando for necessary care. Churro remained with Reckless during their rehabilitation until both were released near Fort Lauderdale in January 2024.

Both manatees were fitted with satellite tags as part of the North Atlantic Coast Manatee Study. Although tagging was not initially planned for Churro, the research team was concerned that she might become separated and struggle without support. Soon after the release, Reckless left, and Churro, inexperienced in living alone, had difficulty finding warm water and food. The satellite tag provided real-time data, which allowed researchers to locate and move her to Blue Spring State Park, a winter refuge for manatees.

Churro appeared to be doing well through the winter and summer, but early in 2025 her tag data and field observations showed that she was not leaving the spring to forage and that her condition was worsening. In February, she was rescued again after losing nearly 200 pounds, receiving further care at SeaWorld Orlando and then at Brevard Zoo. She returned to Blue Spring recently at 700 pounds, showing signs of strength.

All manatee work was conducted under USFWS Research Permit # MA37808A-2.

Source: Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Source Type: Community

Source Location: Clearwater

Daytona, FL

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