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Stranded Manatee Rescued From Fort Myers Beach

A beached manatee was rescued from Bunche Beach in Fort Myers, Florida, on Tuesday, December 10.

According to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the male eight-foot manatee was found completely dry and “in crisis” just west of the John Morris Road entrance to the beach.

The manatee was first discovered by Lee County Parks and Recreation employee Matthew Rudd, who, along with members of the public, kept the mammal wet using buckets and towels until help arrived.

The manatee, estimated to weigh 450 to 500 pounds, was lifted onto a rescue stretcher and carried to a Florida Fish and Wildlife van. It was taken to SeaWorld for treatment, the sheriff’s office said. Credit: Lee County Sheriff’s Office via Storyful