Uploaded November 2013 | Updated September 2026, 6 hours ago
In full view of her loving, supportive DRC family and guests, Aleta gave birth to her new baby!
In full view of her loving, supportive DRC family and guests, Aleta gave birth to her new baby!

![Dolphin Research Center Rescues Buoyant Manatee and Her Calf
[KEY LARGO, FL] On Monday (5/1/23), Dolphin Research Center’s Manatee Rescue Team (DRC), Aquarium Encounters, and the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) rescued a buoyant adult manatee near the Islamorada Bass Pro Shop boat ramp. The female animal was spotted swimming next to her calf with an injury from a boat strike that was so severe it was causing a pneumothorax. As a result, the manatee was experiencing uncontrollable buoyancy, making her more susceptible to another boat strike. This buoyancy is apparent in the accompanying photos and video. You will notice the right side of the adult’s back consistently remains at the surface where the injury is deepest. The team began their attempt to rescue the manatee and her calf near a boat ramp at 80500 Overseas Hwy. After a few hours, the attempt was relocated to Bass Pro Shop where the team was able to secure the duo. The manatee was assessed by DRC veterinarian, Dr. Scott Gearhart, and it was determined she needed further rehabilitation treatment. She and her calf were transported to SeaWorld Orlando to receive necessary care.
Founded in 1984, Dolphin Research Center is home to a family of bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions. The nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization is located at 58901 (mile marker 59) Overseas Highway, Grassy Key, Florida. In addition to being a highly respected education and research facility, DRC is the Licensed Manatee Rescue Team for the Florida Keys and is an accredited member of the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and a member of the International Marine Animal Trainers Association. For more information, visit www.dolphins.org. Dolphin Research Center Rescues Buoyant Manatee and Her Calf](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/h_uaNNr4IHg/mqdefault.jpg)








