Manatee Citron Returns to Florida Waters After Lung Surgery

When Citron the manatee slipped back into the spring-fed waters of Crystal River on August 31, she carried with her a story of resilience and second chances.

The young manatee first needed help in 2023, but her real fight began this January. Rescuers found her swimming on her side in Kings Bay after a boat strike left her with a collapsed lung.

"The second time we rescued her, she had a watercraft injury that was a little bit more severe than her original rescue," said Elysa Tripp, an animal care specialist at SeaWorld Orlando. The veterinary team diagnosed Citron with pneumothorax and knew she needed immediate surgery.

Over seven months, Citron underwent multiple procedures in SeaWorld's surgery suite. The medical team worked around the clock to restore her health, monitoring everything from her eating habits to her ability to float properly in the water.

"She's been able to eat, and she's no longer having any medical issues," Tripp explained as Citron prepared for release. "Her buoyancy is great."

The team grew deeply attached to their twice-rescued patient. Watching her heal brought together veterinarians, animal care specialists, and other park staff in a shared mission to return Citron to her natural home in Crystal River, known as the Manatee Capital of the World.

Why This Inspires

Citron's story represents something bigger than one manatee's recovery. Since 1965, SeaWorld has rehabilitated over 43,000 marine animals, making it one of the world's largest marine rescue organizations.

Each rescue teaches researchers more about treating boat strike injuries, which remain a leading threat to Florida's manatee population. The techniques perfected on Citron could help save countless other manatees facing similar injuries.

"We're so proud of all of our work and our ability to help give her that second chance of life," Tripp said as Citron swam away, healthy and free in her natural environment.