Update: IFAW and Dennis the Manatee

Update: In response to the outpouring of emotion surrounding the unfortunate death of Dennis the Manatee, IFAW would like to update everyone on the context of IFAW's involvement.

The International Fund for Animal Welfare’s Stranding Network has extensive expertise in rescuing dolphins, whales and seals; however they are not authorized to rescue manatees. With that in mind, IFAW consulted the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and their designate, SeaWorld, who have unique expertise in handling these threatened animals.

IFAW had indeed originally sought air transport from the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. military, corporations and individuals. The U.S. Coast Guard originally offered to fly Dennis home, but later informed us they had no crew available.

The only suitable alternate aircraft to be found was a DC-9, however it was so large, it could only land at Otis Air Force Base some 20 miles away. Beyond the distance and $40,000 expense, a flight would have involved multiple transfers and high-altitude transport for a marine mammal already under stress.

The possibility of holding Dennis in a nearby facility was also explored, but the experts from SeaWorld determined he could be stabilized for a longer trip to a better-equipped location. In past rescues, manatees have been held out of water for longer periods of time and survived, so in the end, the manatee experts chose ground transportation.

No option was left unexplored, and no resource went untapped in efforts to save Dennis. Even Sen. John Kerry’s and U.S. Rep. William Delahunt’s staffs worked long hours into the night in an effort to secure military or private air transport. Finally, after a team leader review and deliberation, the decision was made to drive Dennis to Florida.

Dennis received constant care and monitoring from the SeaWorld experts throughout his journey. They demonstrated great care and many consider their efforts heroic. Sadly, wild animals sometimes die despite everyone's best efforts.

The fact that Dennis died is heartbreaking for the many people who worked to ensure his safe return to Florida. The staff members here at IFAW are grateful for the incredible community support that made this rescue attempt possible.