ATLANTA — Two rehabilitated manatees have a new lease on life after being released back into their ocean habitat in the Florida waters.
The manatees, affectionately known as Vamo and Burger, were initially rescued by Zoo Tampa after they were found stranded, cold-stunned and starving. After assessing their condition, the fragile sea cows were then transported to the Georgia Aquarium to gain weight and strength.
Manatees are currently a threatened species, facing several threats that cause their population to dwindle, such as boat strikes, cold stress, and a lack of food sources.
The Georgia Aquarium quickly stepped up to the plate as a safe haven for the young animals, nurturing them back to health at an off-site facility.
After months of care and an intense rehabilitation process, Vamo and Burger gained lots of strength and were officially ready to be released.
On Jan. 30, the Georgia Aquarium team hit the road with the pair, traveling back to the coast of Tampa and reuniting with Zoo Tampa to release them back into their home waters.
The release was made possible due to the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation partnership allowing manatees in need to receive support and care.
