Marathon, FL (WFLA) – Manatee was rescued by Florida Keys, wrapped around a flipper and found on fishing lines carved deep inside her skin.
The manatee and her cow were rescued on June 18 by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Committee and the Dolphin Rescue Center.
The fishing line was removed normally and the wound was treated before both the manatee and calves were released on the same day, the Dolphin Rescue Center said.
“This incident is a powerful reminder of why it is important to properly dispose of fishing lines and gear,” Dr. Scott Geerhart, a veterinarian at the Center for Dolphin Research, said in a statement published online. “Entanglement injuries can be life-threatening and they can be prevented with responsible actions from the public.”
According to the FWC, if someone sees a manatee suffering or a dead manatee, they should call 888-404-3922.
For more information about Manatees, please visit the FWC website.