FWC & Locals Work Together To Save Injured Manatee

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MIAMI (CBSMiami) – A manatee struck by a propeller is recovering in Miami after being rescued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Locals first spotted the manatee in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 28.

The manatee seemed to be distressed, even injured, as it floated near a dock.

A closer look revealed the manatee had a recent prop scar on its back. The sea cow couldn't swim down or use its left fin.

The locals waited with the manatee until the FWC Manatee Group arrived.

FWC Officer Courtney Baumgartner maneuvered the boat so crews could hoop-net the injured sea cow.

With relative ease, they were able to safely load him into their transport vehicle.

The manatee was taken to Miami for further evaluation and treatment.