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."