SeaWorld rescues pregnant manatee

Leah Zanolla | Posted: Jun 22, 2012 | Updated: Oct 19, 2014 - 9:25:27 AM

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SeaWorld Orlando rescued a manatee on June 8, and later discovered she is pregnant. The animal was found in Merritt Island, Florida, trapped in a crab trap line with fishing lines wrapped around both flippers. Her right flipper had to be amputated due to the severe damage. She has been cared for at the marine park since being rescued. The veterinary team did an ultrasound, revealing that the animal was pregnant, but it is unclear when she is due. A manatee's pregnancy lasts 12 months.

Update: The manatee's baby was born overnight on Wednesday, July 18. The baby is currently living with its mother in a back pool and has been nursing well.

Photo courtesy SeaWorld

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