Rescue Helpless Manatees From Hurricane Helene’s Wrath

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Manatees are stranded, starving, and dying after Hurricane Helene’s wrath—join the fight to rescue these vulnerable creatures before it’s too late.

Rescue Helpless Manatees From Hurricane Helene’s Wrath

Hurricane Helene’s devastation didn’t end with flooded homes and destroyed infrastructure. As the storm tore through Florida, it left manatees stranded in its wake, helpless and trapped. These gentle giants, already facing habitat destruction and the dangers of boat collisions, are now in an even more precarious position. Hurricane surges pushed many far inland, where they became trapped as the waters receded1.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is working tirelessly to rescue manatees in distress. Teams of biologists have responded to numerous reports of manatees left stranded in dangerous conditions. Some have been found in shallow ditches, barely surviving in puddles of water, struggling to breathe2. The situation is dire, and it is clear that these manatees cannot save themselves.

A Threat to Their Survival

Manatees, already a vulnerable species, are particularly at risk during extreme weather events like Hurricane Helene. Storm surges drive them far from their natural habitats, and when waters recede, they often find themselves isolated in areas with little or no access to food or fresh water3. In Tampa Bay and other manatee habitats across Florida, irregularly low water levels have left manatees exposed and vulnerable4. Without immediate rescue and rehabilitation, many of these beloved creatures could die from dehydration, stress, or other storm-related complications.

The efforts of FWC, in partnership with Save the Manatee Club and other wildlife organizations, have made a critical difference in the survival of these manatees. But these teams are stretched thin. They need our help to continue their life-saving work and ensure that stranded manatees receive the care they need.

How You Can Help

This is not just a crisis for the manatees in Florida; it’s a wake-up call for all of us. Hurricane Helene may be over, but more storms will come. As extreme weather events increase in frequency and intensity, manatees will face even greater challenges. It’s not enough to rescue a few stranded animals; we must commit to long-term solutions that protect manatees from future disasters.

The time to act is now. FWC and its partners are doing everything they can, but without broader support, their resources are limited. They need public backing to continue their rescue operations and implement stronger protections for manatees across the state. You have the power to make a real difference by adding your voice to this crucial effort.

Sign the Pledge to Protect Manatees

Your signature can help save lives. By signing this pledge, you will support the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in their ongoing efforts to protect manatees from natural disasters, habitat destruction, and other dangers. We cannot afford to wait for the next storm to strike—our manatees need protection now. Together, we can ensure a safer future for these iconic animals and the ecosystems they support.

Sign the pledge today and help safeguard Florida’s manatees for generations to come.

More on this issue:

  1. Olivia Sullivan, WTSP (1 October 2024), "Manatees Stranded After Hurricane Helene Moves Through Florida."
  2. Skyler Shepard, CBS 12 News (1 October 2024), "Manatees Stranded After Helene’s Heavy Rain, Flooding Hit Florida."
  3. Kaitlin Lewis, Newsweek (1 October 2024), "Hurricane Helene Leaves Manatees Stranded in Florida."
  4. Merritt Clifton , Animals 24-7 (30 September 2024), "Hurricane Helene: For Animals & Rescuers, Recovery Has Just Begun."

The Pledge

I pledge my support for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) as they work to rescue and protect Florida's manatees in the wake of Hurricane Helene and other natural disasters. These gentle giants, who rely on our compassion and humanity, deserve a future free from unnecessary harm.

Manatees, often called the "gentle giants" of Florida's waterways, face tremendous threats from natural disasters, habitat loss, and human activity. Our compassion and responsibility toward these animals can make the difference between survival and extinction. By protecting manatees, we also protect the ecosystems that support them and foster a greater respect for all life.

### Actions to Protect Manatees:

1. Report Stranded Manatees:
Commit to immediately reporting stranded, injured, or deceased manatees to the FWC's Wildlife Alert Hotline.
2. Avoid Boat Strikes:
Pledge to follow slow-speed zones in manatee habitats to reduce the risk of fatal boat collisions.
3. Promote Safe Boating:
Spread awareness among fellow boaters about manatee safety and encourage compliance with local waterway regulations.
4. Support Wildlife Rehabilitation:
Contribute time or resources to local wildlife rescue organizations involved in manatee rehabilitation efforts.
5. Respect Marine Sanctuaries:
Commit to avoiding manatee sanctuaries and critical habitats, especially during calving season.
6. Reduce Plastic Pollution:
Make a personal commitment to reduce plastic waste, which can harm manatees and other marine life when it enters waterways.
7. Advocate for Stronger Protections:
Support legislation and policies that enhance protections for manatee habitats and improve water quality in their ecosystems.
8. Volunteer in Conservation Efforts:
Offer your time to help with habitat restoration projects, including planting seagrass and cleaning up polluted waters.
9. Educate Others:
Pledge to educate friends, family, and your community about the importance of manatee conservation and how they can help.
10. Support FWC Initiatives:
Regularly donate or participate in events that directly support FWC's efforts in protecting and rehabilitating manatees.

By taking these actions, we are not only protecting manatees but also fostering a world where humanity's care for nature ensures a better future for all species. Together, we can ensure that Florida's manatees continue to thrive in their natural habitats, safeguarded from both natural and human-made threats.

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