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Related video: Manatees rescued after spending months stranded in Florida canal
BRADENTON, Fla. (WFLA) — The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature welcomed three new manatees on Tuesday.
The arrival of the three young female manatees, named Mandalore, Crane and Kyber, marks the next phase in their recovery and rehabilitation process.
Mandalore, an orphaned calf, was rescued from Orange City in February weighing 180 pounds. She is now 320 pounds.
Kyber, an orphaned calf rescued from Crystal River, suffered from prolonged exposure to cold water. She originally weighed in at 200 pounds and is now up to 310 pounds.
Crane, rescued from Crane’s Bayou, is recovering from cold stress syndrome. At the time of her rescue, she weighed 355 pounds and is now up to 450 pounds.
“It is important that the manatees feel comfortable in their new environment,” said Virginia Edmonds, director of animal care at The Bishop. “We give them every consideration that you would to a human who is adjusting to a major change in their life. The ability to thrive and meet growth milestones equates to a timely return to the wild.”
The three young manatees are currently acclimating to their temporary environment at the Rehabilitation Habitat. Those who wish to observe them can visit The Bishop and learn about the challenges they face on their road to recovery.