In 2025, a wonderful milestone was reached by ZooTampa, one of Florida’s leading manatee rescue organizations. That year, they joyfully released 26 rehabilitated manatees back into their natural habitats, marking the highest number of successful releases in the zoo’s history. This achievement highlights the critical role that ZooTampa plays in the conservation of these beloved marine mammals.

Manatees, often referred to as "sea cows," are cherished symbols of Florida, yet they face significant threats from boat strikes and habitat loss. Each year, dedicated organizations like ZooTampa step in to rescue many injured manatees. The David Straz Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center at the zoo, the largest of its kind in the United States, has been a beacon of hope since 1991, caring for over 615 manatees, with the majority successfully returning to their homes in the wild.

The zoo’s commitment to manatee rescue and rehabilitation comes with a significant financial investment of $2 million annually. Their expert team includes veterinarians certified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, along with skilled animal care professionals, all working tirelessly to ensure the well-being of these gentle creatures.

The need for such a program is underscored by the challenges manatees face; in 2025 alone, over 620 manatees tragically lost their lives in Florida waters, with 97 of those due to boat strikes. This reality only amplifies the importance of ZooTampa's efforts.

Exciting developments are on the horizon, as ZooTampa plans to unveil the Straz Family Manatee Rescue in spring 2026. This state-of-the-art facility will provide visitors with immersive, eye-level views of manatees, allowing them to witness the zoo’s life-saving work firsthand.

The new facility will feature five critical care pools where guests can observe the manatees receiving medical treatment. Additionally, there will be two naturalistic rehabilitation pools where visitors can watch manatees as they prepare for their return to the wild.

ZooTampa’s dedication to these magnificent creatures is truly inspiring, and their ongoing work is a testament to the goodness that exists in wildlife conservation efforts.