In conjunction with Manatee Appreciation Day on March 30, SeaWorld Orlando recently unveiled Manatee Rehabilitation. This new area allows park guests to step inside the manatee acute care facility to see animals that are ill or injured and learn about the rescue and rehab work that goes on behind the scenes.
Guided tours of the facility have been available for many years, yet the park decided to open up areas of the rehabilitation center for guests to view the area on a complimentary basis.
From learning about the plight of vulnerable wildlife to exploring the problems with today's manatee population and how people can take simple actions to help, the rehabilitation center is also used to educate guests about the SeaWorld Animal Rescue Team. Other items on display for viewing include digital medical charts, interactive exhibits, an underwater viewing camera and video footage of the SeaWorld Animal Rescue Team.
The rehab team works closely with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in determining when and where a manatee is set to be returned to natural waters.
SeaWorld Orlando's mission is to return every rehabilitated manatee into the wild. By opening the Manatee Rehabilitation center to the public, there is hope for a greater awareness of the animals and to educate visitors.
This new viewing area is set to be the first of many ways the park plans to show guests how SeaWorld Orlando is helping and caring for animals in need.
Price: Single-day pass to SeaWorld Orlando: $79 for ages 3 and up.
Info: 888-800-5447.
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