New Manatees Join The Seas with Nemo & Friends at Walt Disney World
Introduction
Walt Disney World’s The Seas with Nemo & Friends has welcomed two new aquatic residents: Cider and Mino, the manatees. Their arrival marks a significant change in the park’s role in manatee conservation.
Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership
Disney is an active member of the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP), a coalition of organizations dedicated to protecting these threatened species. As part of the partnership, Disney previously focused on providing long-term care for manatees unable to be safely released back into the wild.
Shift in Role
However, the increasing conservation need has prompted a shift in Disney’s role. "Now that the conservation need has really increased a lot with manatees over the years, what was best for the MRP was to allow Disney to move our long-term resident animals," explained Dr. Jen Flower, clinical veterinarian at Walt Disney World.
This move frees up space to care for manatees with critical short-term needs. "We can provide really great care for them," said Flower.
Meet Cider and Mino
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Cider: Believed to be 4 years old, weighing approximately 770 pounds. Has an infection that is being monitored and treated.
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Mino: Estimated to be 2 to 3 years old, weighing about 470 pounds. Main goal is to gain weight through supervised feeding.
Personalities and Progress
Flower describes Mino as laid back and chill, while Cider is more spirited, earning her the nickname "Spicy Cider."
Both animals are eating well and gaining weight since arriving at The Seas. "I’m feeling very confident that they’re going to do well," said Dr. Geoff Pye, Disney’s Animal Health Director.
Relocation of Lil Joe and Inigo
Disney’s previous long-term residents, Lil Joe and Inigo, were relocated in January to Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park in Florida. The Gulfarium is also part of the MRP, and its CEO, Patrick Berry, has worked closely with Disney on manatee care.
New Home at the Gulfarium
Lil Joe and Inigo are thriving in their new habitat, which holds over 300,000 gallons of water and has been specifically retrofitted for manatees. They have access to new heating and cooling equipment, a medical area, and a rock feature with ledges for resting.
Expanding Conservation Efforts
Gulfarium plans to expand its critical care capabilities for manatees. "We’re going to take care of them for a little while until either their positions change and they’re ready to go out or perhaps for the rest of their lives," said Berry.
Educational Role
For many guests, seeing manatees at The Seas or the Gulfarium may be their only opportunity to interact with these animals. Flower hopes these encounters inspire awareness and action to protect them.
"Start with the simple things," she advises. "Pick up after yourselves at the beach and slow down when boating. Manatees are difficult to see, especially in murky water."
Conclusion
The arrival of Cider and Mino at The Seas with Nemo & Friends marks an important milestone in Disney’s commitment to manatee conservation. By shifting its focus to more critical care, Disney and the MRP are working together to protect and rehabilitate these threatened species.
