Four rescued manatees have transitioned from Ohio to Florida as part of a conservation effort. This prepares them for winter releases into their native waters. The interstate animal transfers took place between October 12 and October 14, 2026. They involved collaborative operations by the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, and wildlife conservation partners.
The movement of these marine mammals marks a milestone in their rehabilitation journeys. While the four older manatees headed south to Sunshine State facilities, the conservation network simultaneously welcomed six newly arrived orphaned manatee calves into Ohio for long-term critical care and nurturing.
Coordinated Animal Transfers Across State Lines
The recent transport logistics required meticulous planning and specialized equipment to ensure the safety and well-being of the marine mammals. DHL Express provided dedicated air transportation to Florida. Afterward, the manatees completed the final legs of their journeys via specialized ground transport to their destination facilities.
To protect the animals from stress and physical harm during transit, handlers placed them inside custom, foam-lined, temperature-controlled containers. These specialized environments maintained optimal thermal conditions throughout the multi-stage journey from the Midwest to the southeastern coastline.
Individual Manatee Assignments
The group of four traveling south comprised residents from two major Ohio zoological institutions:
- Redrock, Rosalyn, and Erie: Three female manatees previously housed and cared for at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. They were transferred directly to the Brevard Zoo’s East Coast Zoological Foundation Manatee Rehabilitation Center.
- Hundo: A male manatee under the prior care of the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden. He completed his journey to the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
The Next Phase: Preparing for Winter Release
At their new Florida facilities, Redrock, Rosalyn, Erie, and Hundo will undergo the final stage of rehabilitation. Wildlife experts and veterinary teams will monitor their behavior, health, and foraging skills closely. This ensures they are fully prepared to re-enter natural marine ecosystems safely during the winter release window.
Concurrently, the spaces left vacant by the departing manatees in Ohio are being utilized to support ongoing rescue pipelines. The arrival of six orphaned calves highlights the continued strain on manatee populations across North America. This requires coordinated interstate networks to nurse vulnerable youngsters back to health before they can eventually begin their own rehabilitation tracks.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Manatee Transfers
Which Ohio zoos participated in the manatee transfer?
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden both participated in the coordinated October 2026 animal transfers.
How many manatees were moved from Ohio to Florida?
Four manatees in total-three females from Columbus and one male from Cincinnati-were transferred south for their final rehabilitation phase.
What facilities are housing the manatees in Florida?
The three female manatees (Redrock, Rosalyn, and Erie) arrived at Brevard Zoo’s East Coast Zoological Foundation Manatee Rehabilitation Center. Hundo went to the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
How were the manatees transported safely?
The animals were transported via DHL Express air cargo and specialized ground transport inside foam-lined, temperature-controlled containers designed to protect them during travel.
What happened to the space left behind in Ohio?
The facilities welcomed six newly arrived orphaned manatee calves into Ohio to receive specialized, ongoing care and early-stage rehabilitation.
