Rehabilitated Manatee 'Koa' Returns to Jacksonville Waters After Boat Propeller Injury

Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation

• 💔 A manatee named Koa was rescued from the Ortega River in Jacksonville after being hit by boat propellers, sustaining broken ribs and inability to submerge.
• 🔍 Elmer Dealma spotted Koa floating unusually high and unable to submerge, noticing propeller marks, and contacted authorities.
• 🏥 Koa underwent nearly six weeks of rehabilitation at Orlando SeaWorld to recover from his injuries.

Koa's Release Back Home

• 🚚 After rehabilitation, Koa was transported back to Jacksonville for his release.
• 🤝 It took at least ten people to carefully carry the 882-lb mammal from the transport truck to the water.
• 🏷️ During the release process, Koa was measured, microchipped for tracking, and had yellow marks drawn on his body to identify scar patterns.
• ✅ Koa was successfully submerged back into the Ortega River, returning to his natural environment.

Boating Safety Reminder

• ⚠️ Florida Fish and Wildlife officials emphasized the importance of boaters being aware of manatees and slowing down to prevent such injuries.
• 📞 A toll-free number (888-444-FWC) is available for reporting distressed marine animals.