Manatees rescued from boat strikes, cold stunning, and entanglement require specialized rehabilitation before release. Zoos and aquariums play a critical role in this work.
Manatees in rehabilitation centers require specialized conditions including heated water, appropriate vegetation feeding, and careful social management. Orphaned calves that become too habituated to humans cannot be safely released and become lifelong ambassadors. The trauma of rescue itself — handling, transport, and unfamiliar environments — causes significant acute stress. Long rehabilitation periods require consistent staff relationships to minimize ongoing distress. Release preparation must include gradual exposure to natural foraging conditions and temperature variation. Manatee welfare in rehabilitation is increasingly evidence-based, with outcome monitoring driving continuous improvement.