MERRITT ISLAND, Fla. – An injured manatee that was rescued by SeaWorld Orlando a week ago is pregnant, according to a release.
Last Friday, SeaWorld's animal rescue team rescued the 10-foot manatee from Sykes Creek in Merritt Island, Fla. The manatee had severe injuries to its right flipper caused by a tightly wrapped crab trap line. Officials said fishing line was also wrapped around both of its flippers.
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Weighing nearly 1,400 pounds, the adult female was transported by the animal rescue team to SeaWorld Orlando for further evaluation and care. After assessment, the manatee's right flipper was amputated and bandaged.
SeaWorld officials said because of her large size, the veterinary team performed an ultrasound and discovered that she is pregnant. It is unknown exactly how far along in her 12-month pregnancy she is.