Manatee Safely Rescued from Storm Drain in Melbourne Beach

MELBOURNE BEACH, Fla. (Feb. 9, 2026)

An adult manatee was discovered and successfully removed from a stormwater drain Monday afternoon during routine maintenance on Neptune Drive.A work crew inspecting the system spotted the animal inside a baffle box — a debris-catching chamber that drains into the Indian River Lagoon. Officials believe the manatee entered the pipe from the lagoon seeking warmer water after recent cold snaps.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded immediately, coordinating with Brevard County Fire Rescue, Search and Rescue, Melbourne Beach officials, and SeaWorld veterinarians. Crews blocked the street, removed the grate, and used flashlights to assess the manatee, which appeared active and showed no signs of cold stress.After careful planning, rescuers drilled into the roadway for safe access. The manatee was gently extracted, examined on site by veterinarians, and confirmed to be in good condition. It was released back into the lagoon.The town quickly approved funds to repair the road. FWC praised the multi-agency effort for protecting both the animal and responders.