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On February 9, 2026, just after 9 p.m., a 7-foot, 410-pound juvenile male manatee was safely removed from a storm drain in Melbourne Beach thanks to the coordinated efforts of FWC, federal, local partners and municipalities. With the right people, equipment, and resources working together, the manatee was rescued and transported to SeaWorld Orlando for rehabilitation.
During the initial onsite assessment, responders noted he was underweight and had multiple open wounds on his underside near his tail and flippers. The good news: the manatee showed interest in food during his first night in care, which is an encouraging sign.
This outcome was possible because of employees from Haley Ward, Inc. who quickly reported the manatee to FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline, allowing responders to act quickly. Thank you to all those involved in this rescue: FWC, SeaWorld Orlando, Brevard County Fire Rescue, Brevard County Government: Emergency Operations Center, Public Works, Town of Melbourne Beach, Melbourne Beach Police, UF VETS Animal Technical Rescue team, and USFWS.
 Nonlethal Way to Age Bass
Black basses are one of the most popular freshwater sportfish in North America. Traditionally, determining a fish’s age requires removing otoliths (ear stones) which is a lethal process.
However, by using a small fin clip and DNA analysis to measure natural tiny chemical markers that change as fish grow older, scientists can accurately estimate age without harming the fish.
Why does this matter?
- Highly accurate age estimates – especially important for trophy-sized Florida Bass
- No need to sacrifice fish
- Faster data collection
- Potentially more cost effective
 From Rescue to Release!
After a long cold snap dragged through Florida last month, 781 sea turtles were rescued along Florida’s shorelines due to becoming cold stunned.
Thanks to the coordinated efforts of FWC, other state and federal agencies, rehabilitation partners, dedicated volunteers and organizations across the state, and some much-needed warmer temperatures, over 700 turtles have now been released!
 Marine Boater Survey
Are you a frequent boater? Have you ever seen a North Atlantic Right whale while out on the water?
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute is taking part in a marine boater communications survey being conducted by FWC and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division. The purpose of this survey is to streamline communications in order to increase safety for boaters and whales, while respecting the needs of boaters.
 Meet Florida’s Smallest Falcon, the Imperiled Southeastern American Kestrel
Florida’s smallest falcon, the imperiled Southeastern American Kestrel, is the focus of new research by FWRI scientists. They’re conducting the first study to measure how much space adult kestrels need during the breeding season. Understanding kestrel habitat use and space requirements is vitally important for good stewardship of this charismatic subspecies.
New on MyFWC.com/Research
We hope you enjoy these articles that have been recently added/updated on our website:
Red Tide Current Status
Red Tide-Related Hotlines and Information Sources
2026 Manatee Mortalities
Annual Manatee Rescue Summaries
Save the Manatee Trust Fund Annual Reports
Florida Land Cover Classification System
Freshwater Fisheries Research Manager Reports
Our Mission
Through effective research and technical knowledge, we provide
timely information and guidance to protect, conserve, and manage
Florida's fish and wildlife resources.
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