Florida manatee rescued from storm drain in dramatic Space Coast crane operation

A unique rescue operation took place on Florida's Space Coast on Monday as crews raced to help a manatee that got stuck in a storm drain.

It happened in Brevard County's Melbourne Beach, a city located about 185 miles north of Miami.

Manatees are frequently spotted in Florida as the lovable animals known affectionately as "sea cows" head south for warmer water. However, it's not common for a manatee to get stuck in a storm drain, officials said.

A massive rescue effort was launched that included numerous federal, state and local officials.

Curious residents and visitors also descended upon the area to get a look at the unique rescue.

"I nearly want to ask him why he took that turn, you know, and went down the storm drain when he finally comes to," Melbourne Beach resident Enda Cormican said.

Crews use crane to rescue manatee

Crews needed to use a crane to finally get the animal to safety. And the good news is that officials don't believe that the manatee was affected by the cold water.

"The volunteers that came and very few of those people are getting paid tonight," Cormican said. "It's just an amazing spirit."

After the manatee was rescued, the crowd cheered and clapped.

"It was great," Cormican said. "I'm proud to be from here and live here. To be from this community."

Countless manatees are frequently spotted across the region, and they usually migrate to Blue Spring State Park in Volusia County.

On New Year's Eve, hundreds of manatees were spotted in Citrus County forming what is known as a "cuddle puddle" in order to keep warm when unusually cold temperatures were reported across Florida.