BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. – SeaWorld Orlando successfully released Reckless and Churro, a manatee mother and calf duo, back to Broward County, following over a year of extensive rehabilitation at the Rescue Center, the park announced Friday.
Rescued in May 2022 after a boat strike left Reckless in critical condition, the pair underwent 12 lifesaving procedures and received over 17,000 hours of specialized care.
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The SeaWorld veterinary team worked diligently to preserve the bond between Reckless and Churro, crucial for their joint return to the wild.
“Reckless had a very poor prognosis upon arrival at SeaWorld, but it was clear from the beginning that the mother and calf pair were fighters, and our veterinary team was determined to give them another shot at life,” said Dr. Stacy DiRocco, senior veterinarian at SeaWorld Orlando. “Our extensive veterinary care for Reckless included amputation of her pectoral flipper, multiple surgeries to battle infection and promote healing, radiographs, cold laser therapy, gastroscopy and intensive medical care to stabilize and overcome her injuries – and she proved resilient through it all.”
Fitted with tracking belts, the park said Reckless and Churro will contribute valuable data to monitor their well-being in their natural habitat, the park said.
“The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has an unwavering commitment to manatee conservation,” said Andy Garrett, statewide manatee stranding coordinator at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. “SeaWorld Orlando’s successful rehabilitation of Reckless and Churro enables two healthy female manatees to return to the wild. This partnership and collaboration play a crucial role in achieving this important conservation goal.”
SeaWorld Orlando said this release aligns with efforts to address the decline in manatee populations due to an unusual mortality event.
SeaWorld credits itself with being the largest manatee rescue operation in the U.S., operating one of three critical care centers and accommodating up to 60 manatees.
See an interview with Dr. Stacy DiRocco in the video below.
The facilities include advanced amenities and expert staff, allowing SeaWorld to help over 1,300 manatees amidst the ongoing unusual mortality event.
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