Argyle & Stripes: A Manatee Success Story       
By: Isabella Filber - Medical Techinian

One of the most meaningful aspects of working at Dolphin Research Center is our ability to assist with manatee rescues in partnership with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). In the case of Stripes and her calf, Argyle, it was clear from the start that they were in urgent need of intervention. Fortunately, they would soon be in capable hands ready to help.

At approximately 1:30 p.m. on May 15, 2025, our team arrived in Key Largo and began navigating the intricate network of residential canals in search of the pair. After carefully scanning the area, we located a mother and a very small, newborn calf who was named Argyle. Because Argyle was so young, the situation required heightened caution. Standard capture techniques can pose additional risks when working with a mother and calf simultaneously; there is always concern that the calf could become separated, entangled, or inadvertently injured during the process. Every movement had to be deliberate and coordinated.

Once successfully secured and transported to shore, Argyle was placed in a small, water-filled kiddie pool to provide the tactile comfort of the water, which is especially important for a neonate. With the calf stabilized, our attention turned to Stripes, the mother. Both of her pectoral flippers were severely inflamed and swollen as a result of entanglement injuries. Our attending veterinarian, Dr. Scott Gearhart, performed an on-site assessment and quickly determined that her condition required more advanced medical intervention than could be provided during a routine rescue and release.

Working collaboratively, our team and FWC coordinated transport for both Stripes and Argyle to SeaWorld Orlando, where Stripes could receive comprehensive veterinary care and rehabilitation.

Approximately eight months later, we received the news we had hoped for; both manatees had recovered and were cleared for release. As is standard practice, they were returned to the same region where they had been rescued, the waters of Key Largo. Our team assisted in the release, alongside multiple partners, watching as Stripes and Argyle swam back into their natural habitat.

Moments like that are profoundly rewarding. To witness an animal’s full journey, from crisis and uncertainty to recovery and freedom, is a reminder of why this work matters. No matter the size of the animal, playing a role in giving them a second chance makes every challenge worthwhile. You can be a part of our Manatee Rescue success by a number of ways such as following “no wake” zones while boating, keeping manatee habitats clean, or by simply donating to support on-site rescue efforts of local animal care teams like us.