After months of care and rehabilitation at The Seas in EPCOT, Mermaid the manatee has been successfully released back into her natural habitat. This marks another milestone in Disney’s commitment to wildlife conservation and the protection of Florida’s manatee population. In this article, we’ll explore Mermaid’s journey, the role of The Seas as a rehabilitation center, and what this means for the future of manatee conservation.
Mermaid’s Journey
Rescue and Arrival at EPCOT
Mermaid was rescued from the Homosassa River in February 2025. At the time of her rescue, she weighed approximately 525 pounds and had a unique split tail that inspired her name. She was brought to The Seas at EPCOT in March, where Disney’s animal care team began her rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation Process
During her time at The Seas, Mermaid received specialized care to help her regain strength and reach a healthy weight of at least 600 pounds. The team monitored her progress closely, ensuring she was ready for reintroduction to the wild. According to Disney’s animal care experts, releasing manatees during cooler months increases the likelihood of a successful transition back to their natural environment.
Release Back Into the Wild
On October 9, 2025, Mermaid was released back into the wild, marking the culmination of her rehabilitation journey. Her release highlights the importance of short-term rehabilitation programs in supporting Florida’s manatee population.
The Seas as a Rehabilitation Center
Transition to Short-Term Care
Earlier this year, The Seas transitioned from a long-term to a short-term rehabilitation center. This shift allows Disney to focus on providing immediate care for rescued manatees before transferring them back to the wild or to other facilities for extended care.
Current Residents
Guests visiting The Seas can still view two other manatees, Tanimura (Tani) and Cider, who are currently undergoing rehabilitation. Both manatees have shown significant progress since their arrival, with Cider gaining over 200 pounds.
Conservation Efforts
The Seas plays a vital role in Disney’s broader conservation initiatives, offering a unique opportunity for guests to learn about manatees and the challenges they face in the wild. By combining education with hands-on care, The Seas helps raise awareness about the importance of protecting these gentle marine mammals.
The Importance of Manatee Conservation
Threats to Manatees
Manatees face numerous threats in the wild, including habitat loss, boat strikes, and changes in water temperature. Rehabilitation programs like the one at The Seas are essential for addressing these challenges and supporting the recovery of injured or orphaned manatees.
How Guests Can Help
Visitors to EPCOT can support manatee conservation by learning more about these animals at The Seas and contributing to organizations dedicated to wildlife protection. Simple actions, such as following boating safety guidelines and reducing water pollution, can also make a significant difference.
Conclusion
Mermaid’s successful release back into the wild is a testament to the dedication of Disney’s animal care team and the effectiveness of short-term rehabilitation programs. As The Seas continues to care for rescued manatees like Tani and Cider, it remains a beacon of hope for the conservation of Florida’s manatee population. By visiting The Seas and supporting conservation efforts, guests can play a part in protecting these remarkable creatures for generations to come.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
