HomeLocal NewsGeorgia Aquarium Successfully Releases Rehabilitated Manatee Back into Florida Habitat

Georgia Aquarium Successfully Releases Rehabilitated Manatee Back into Florida Habitat

Share and Follow

ATLANTA (WRBL) — Following an extensive eight-month rehabilitation period at the Georgia Aquarium, Lorenzo, a manatee, has been successfully reintroduced into Florida’s waters.

The Georgia Aquarium reports that Lorenzo and another manatee named Alfredo were brought to their off-site facility in June 2025. Both manatees had been discovered stranded and in poor health. During their rehabilitation, veterinary teams crafted individualized care plans and performed regular health checks to ensure their recovery was on track.

Upon his arrival, Lorenzo’s weight was under 300 pounds. By the time he was ready for release, he had more than doubled his weight, reaching over 639 pounds.

To monitor his movement and gather critical data on his adaptation post-rehabilitation, Lorenzo was equipped with a satellite tag.

Meanwhile, Alfredo remains at Zoo Tampa, as his caretakers have determined he still needs additional rehabilitation to meet the necessary criteria for release.

The Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership says if you spot a sick, injured, or orphaned manatee, or a manatee that is being harassed, report it immediately by calling 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).

Share and Follow