Mobile Manatees Sighting Network

Researchers gently lead the first captured manatee ("Bama", far left) toward the boat. 

Team members work quickly to release "Bama" safely from the capture net.

The Animal Care Team from SeaWorld, Monica Ross from Wildlife Trust Florida, and Claire Pabody of DISLs Mobile Manatees Sighting Network perform a health assessment on "Bama".
Pictured are:  Steve Lehr, Brant Gabriel, Monica Ross, 
Bob Wagner, Claire Pabody, and "Bama"

"Bama" weighs in at 1,020 pounds.   SeaWorld's specially designed manatee capture boat is also used for rescues. Pictured are:  Scott Carmichael, Jon Peterson, Steve Lehr, Brant Gabriel, and "Bama"

DISL Senior Marine Scientist, Dr. Ruth Carmichael assists Wildlife Trust Biologist, Monica Ross in fitting "Bama" with a custom-sized tracking belt that will hold her tether and floating tag.

Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and US Fish and Wildlife Service Alabama Field Office personnel watch as "Bama" swims away with her newly fitted tag that will continuously monitor her location by satellite.

The first manatee tagged in Alabama waters, dubbed "Bama", now carries a light weight floating tag, which can be spotted when she is near the surface.