Cold-stressed Manatee spotted by student rescued in Bayboro Harbor.

FWC employees and volunteers surrounded the juvenile manatee as news crews and curious passersby looked on.

Photos courtesy of Kelah Lehart

By Alisha Durosier

While doing Homework in the library on Jan. 19, junior marine biology student Kierstyn Benjamin noticed a peculiar sight –– a manatee’s head bobbing beneath the water. Benjamin went out to the harbor to get a closer look and began to worry.

Kierstyn Benjamin was interviewed by *ABC Action News* about her efforts to ensure the manatee’s rescue.
*Courtesy of Kelah Lehart | The Crow’s Nest*

“I was kind of concerned when I saw it was just by itself,” Benjamin said in an interview with USF. “But he was coming up for air quite frequently, so I thought that was a good sign.”

Calling the wildlife alert hotline, Benjamin reported what she saw to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and they responded immediately. The manatee appeared to have bleached skin and lesions due to the cold in addition to his rapid breathing. Via videos and photos, the FWC were able to diagnose the manatee with cold stress, which often occurs when water temperature drops less than 68 degrees.

*Courtesy of Kelah Lehart | The Crow’s Nest*

Responders were able to capture the 6-foot manatee and transport him to ZooTampa where he is currently being rehabilitated and treated for cold stress.