Overview
- Melby, rehabilitated at SeaWorld Orlando, was released into the Indian River Lagoon near Ballard Park in Brevard County.
- The release followed a February rescue after city crews found him trapped in a storm drain during repair work.
- SeaWorld veterinarians and Florida wildlife officials cleared him for return after treatment and a weight gain of more than 100 pounds to about 515 pounds.
- The send-off drew a crowd that included firefighters, wildlife staff and neighbors who took part in or witnessed the rescue.
- City leaders and residents are working on prevention so manatees do not enter stormwater systems, highlighting how drain networks that tie into rivers can become hidden traps for marine animals.