SeaWorld has surpassed a significant conservation benchmark, rescuing a total of 43,000 injured, sick, or orphaned animals across its parks in Orlando, San Diego, and San Antonio.

The milestone was reached after SeaWorld Rescue in San Diego rescued six birds and a young, orphaned California sea lion pup in early May. The sea lion pup has since been monitored and placed with other sea lion pups.

Animals rescued through the program include birds, manatees, whales, turtles, dolphins, and other mammals and fish. In Florida specifically, 21 manatees, a baby dolphin, and nearly 40 turtles, reptiles, and several birds were among those rescued. SeaWorld Orlando operates the largest manatee rescue program in the United States and is one of only five critical care centers for the species.

Dr. Chris Dold, Chief Zoological Officer at United Parks & Resorts — SeaWorld’s parent company — said rescue and rehabilitation can save individual animals and, in some cases, support the preservation of endangered and threatened species such as the Florida manatee.

Follow the St. Pete-Clearwater Sun on Facebook, Google, & X

St. Pete-Clearwater Sun: local St. Pete-Clearwater news at PIE-Sun.com