A manatee that was stranded on a Volusia County beach was rescued and relocated by local and state officials this week.
On Wednesday, July 5, members of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Volusia Marine Mammal Stranding Team responded to Ponce Inlet after reports of a stranded manatee.
In video released by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, crews can be seen gathering around the manatee and lifting it into a box truck.
The manatee was then successfully transported to the SeaWorld Rehabilitation Center, according to VCSO.
The state of Florida is currently in the midst of manatee season, which takes place from April through October. When waters begin to get colder, manatees make their way to freshwater sources including multiple Florida springs, where temperatures are constant.
Officials are taking the opportunity to remind residents and visitors not to approach or touch stranded animals. If you see a stranded animal, report it to the Florida Fish and Wildlife hotline at 888-404-3922.
To read more about the work done by the Volusia County Mammal Stranding Team, visit their website.