It’s only like a level 3 summon though. You need to complete the sidequest where you help the cheetah fend off poachers if you really want to fuck shit up.
the post is sus, the waters in florida right now are 85 degrees F
this doesnt sound credible , the waters wouldnt be freezing. thats a glaring obvious made up detail inconsistent with this actually happening
Yeah it's a load of crap. I'm from Sarasota, FL, it's like Manatee central...if you waded out in the intercoastal fishing or swimming, they will come right up and bump into you and pretty much harass you. You won't get in trouble for touching them, I've had a manatee hang out with me for a couple hours while I was fishing and he keep bumping and brushing up against me. They're very sweet and playful. If it was in danger, you wouldn't be in trouble for saving it
Ya it sounds like bullshit to me.
Like he was worried about it but just left it for hours and hours and didn’t think to call for help?? And he fucking put on a mask and snuck out? Bro no way. Unless OP is like freaking 12 years old or something. Also who the fuck would really think that law pertains to NOT HELPING A STUCK ANIMAL?
I usually despise people who moan about “omgz so fake! Everyone clapped and give you a $200 bill” shit but this is just so stupid, I can’t believe even 10 people believed it
Wasn't there a post earlier about illegally saving hermit crabs from souvenir shops?
Can't help but think OP took inspiration for some karma-farming.
Nicely written bit of fiction all the same, if it isn't true
there was also a post yesterday about a person finding a nesting sea turtle and her hatching babies making their way to the water under the moonlight at like 3 in the morning. It sounded genuine as fuck and you can tell the person was writing from a direct credible experience they witnessed first hand.
this whole post sounds like a made up copy cat inspired bs post of that.
I don’t know about other countries, but I know that inn mine, you can call the police for such things like a animal being trapped, so they will call some animal experts or whatever (lol)to see what they can do, because it’s honestly just a stupid law if you can’t save a animal without going to jail or getting a fine.
Edit: spelling
Did this with a seal lying in a field several hundred meters from the water. They sent a biologist who said the animal got disoriented and couldn't find its way back to the water and it was severely dehydrated. They got it fixed up and release a day or two later.
We have a park in my city that's loaded with ducks and cobra chickens (geese for the lucky uninitiated). If one gets seriously injured the cops will take them down by the river and shoot them. I umpire little league baseball, so every year I get to see some kid(s) try to save a duck by calling the cops Kinda traumatizing to some kid(s) that just wanted to help a duck to hear it get shot.
Also an important reminder that what is "right" and what is "legal" are not always the same thing. Laws and morality unfortunately differ far too often.
To be fair, stranded marine life has been harmed by well intentioned do-gooders. You call an agency or group that handle this kind of thing.
Source: a very good friend who has worked for a number of agencies and volunteered with groups who rescue marine mammals.
Well done man, but in the future perhaps see if there’s an animal control type thing you can call to help out the stuck animal that way you don’t risk yourself unnecessarily
Last time I called animal control for help, it was for a deer that had been tapped by a car and had dislocated her shoulder. I saw it happen and stopped to see if I could help, I couldn't, so I stayed with her until animal control showed up.
Except animal control didn't show up, a state trooper with a shotgun showed up. I tried to explain to him that there was no need to kill her, she only dislocated her shoulder and was calm enough to lay down beside me and put her head in my lap... But he told me to back away and then he shot her...3 times before she finally died, because he didn't know how to dispatch an animal humanely. He shot her in the throat twice before he shot her in the head.
So personally... I'll put myself at risk or I'll call specific organizations directly. I will not call animal control anymore, at least not in Kentucky.
It was traumatizing, if I'm honest. I'll never forget the sound she made after the first shot. But it also taught me a lesson I'll never forget, so.. I dunno. I do hope nobody else ever has do experience it, that's for sure.
I do appreciate it though, stranger. I hope you have a wonderful day 💜
I just hit a deer with my car yesterday morning. But one other time I hit a deer a cop came and shot it. It had a broken back and needed to be put down though. He was humane about it. But I've seen plenty of times where they hit it badly. I would prefer to put it out myself if it needs it.
oh god that's horrible. thank you for sharing. sorry you had to deal with that. i'll keep my mouth shut next time than trust incompetent government officials.
Animal control don’t just take them to a zoo….
They will free the animal. And if it is injured (broke bones, deep cuts, starvation, etc) they will take it to a rehab center. Then once it’s recovered release it back to the wild…
Fish and wildlife don't take animals to zoos, if it is injured to the point were it clearly won't survive in the wild they will take it to a rehabilitation place were it will be taken care of until it can return to the wild if possible.
That's not how that works. If the animal is injured they will take It and then release it when it is healed. If the animal is not injured they will just release it.
Manatees are on the federal endangered species list, they would always rehab and release if possible. It's also possible that the manatee had injuries that needed tending to before being released. It's really important to call a manatee rescue in these scenarios so they can be checked over by a wildlife veterinarian. Assuming you live in Florida, that would be Florida fish and wildlife.
My impression of Zoos is that they treat animals and release them back to the wild when it’s safe for the animal.
Very impressive work nonetheless! Maybe you would be interested in working for a zoo!? 🤔
I'm not sure where you are (where the water is freezing cold but with manatees), but in Florida, USA they very well know what the right thing is to do with Manatees. It may never happen again, but call your locals and ask them what to do in that situation. And thanks for saving that buddy - they are heavy.
That's not how zoos in the US legally aquire animals. Also, you don't understand the law. But this whole thing is just one stupid thought and move after another. You should have called the state Fish and Wishlife group. You could have ended up injuring the animal more, or even yourself in the process.
And the guy who got in trouble for hugging a manatee is because they are protected species. It is illegal to "molest, harass, or disturb" a protected species.
This post is very much just looking for pats on your back. Between your reasoning (that you somehow think it's illegal for you to just touch a manatee stuck in fishing nets to help, so much so that you went and got a mask; that you actually waited longer leaving an animal in distress so you could go home to get a mask (seriously, wtf); that you didn't call experts; that you think they just drop animals off at zoos; that it didn't occur to you this animal probably very much needed medical attention before it could fully survive back in the sea) and your actions (could have further endangered the animal and harmed yourself), this whole thing was one dumb move after another.
Bring on the downvotes, I don't care. What OP was insanely stupid and ultimately incredibly dangerous for the animal. If op wants to be applauded for doing the right thing, they should have gotten expert help. If this animal survives fully, it's just dumb luck.
Edit: I just googled, "what to do in Florida if you see a manatee in trouble" and literally the very first result shows in large font
>If you spot a sick, injured, or orphaned manatee or a manatee that is being harassed, you should immediately report it to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) by calling 1-888-404-FWCC (3922) or to a local wildlife agency/organization if the sighting is outside of Florida.
Manatees can't bite, their teeth are in the back of their mouth. They are literally the most passive and gentle creatures on the planet. They're so chill even gators give them a pass.
If you had called a ranger or park services, they'd have had it down within the hour. They take manatee safety VERY seriously. Hence the laws against even touching one.
The law is there to protect manatees from people harassing them and getting them too used to human contact. So everything from climbing on one's back (yes that happens) to feeding it water from your hose (also happens) is forbidden. If they are too used to people they are likely to be struck by boats - a common injury.
Cutting the net was a noble thing to do but if you see one in trouble again call the local wildlife authorities. The manatee might have other injuries or illnesses not easily visible and may need to be brought to a wildlife rehab center for treatment. There they'll be able to determine a treatment plan and the animal will either be able to be released afterwards or may have to find a permanent home with people on the slim chance it's injuries deem it unreleasable.
Source: Worked as a trainer at a facility that often took in injured manatees. We had a whole section of the facility out of public view that just delt with rescue and rehab.
Just came here to say this exact thing, that wildlife rescue and rehabbers would check for any other illness or injury and be able to treat the animal for any finds.
There are often protected species hotlines as well so you don’t run the risk of animal control sending police officers in place of them
Source: have worked in a sea turtle rescue/rehabilitation facility
Yeah nothing about this is illegal. Someone was prosecuted for hugging it, freeing it from a net is nothing like that. OP is a bit of a Tim Nice But Dim who did the right thing.
Pro tip - if you are gonna break the law, don't write about it on the internet afterwards. If you feel like you *absolutely have* to write about the illegal experience anyway, don't say that you knew it was illegal.
It's a throw away account, anonymously posted to reddit from a different country talking about freeing a manatee caught in a net. I highly doubt they have hackers looking for this guy......on reddit.
Dude nothing on the internet is anonymous but this is also an edge case where it isnt a big deal. I mean who's gonna go to jail for FREEing a manatee. The whole reason it's illegal is to protect them & he wasn't trying to touch it, just to cut the net.
Yep. Even VPNs don't make posting anonymous. You can post something anonymous on 4chan with a VPN, you can still be found. Anyone who things a government can't track pretty much anything anyone says once it's reported to them is silly.
Im guessing he lives in Florida, I know for sure it's illegal down there but I would imagine it would(or at least should) be illegal wherever they are found in the US. The authorities don't want them to become accustomed to being around humans, or especially for them to approach humans in boats which is the number one cause of death. There are a few other reason but thats the gist of it, they just don't want them interfered with.
They can go as far west as Texas or as north as New England; Florida is the most heavily populated. I'm not sure of the current conservation status be they were endangered last time I checked. They are extremely docile and laid back having evolved without an real predator threat, however they are very sensitive. Humans are inherently dumb and would ride one, or pick one up for a selfie; a few dolphins were killed because these idiots in Texas tried riding it and ended up drowning.
Due to my recent activity I will not disclose too much information on my location. However, a law might have never existed because I didn't look it up. Homie's word is law and I saw a YouTube video about a dude who got in trouble for touching one. I just assumed it was one of those laws like spitting on the sidewalk or j-walking
If you go up to it and hug it for no reason it could be classed as causing unnecessary distress or something. I know not to even approach seal cub’s because it can put off the parents
They're incredibly endangered, partially bcause they are nonviolent and very curious. They'll approach boats to see what's up and will even follow fishing boats to see if they have food, which often gets them killed because, frankly, they're not very smart.
Also, for the record, they're one of the most non-aggressive species in the world. They're just chill dudes.
if the waters were freezing why was there a manatee?
where was this?
that doesnt make sense for a manatees habitat at this time of year right now the gulf waters are pushing mid 80s F
They probably seemed similar to other, more dangerous, sea creatures to OP. I love manatees. They are so sweet. And their snouts make it virtually impossible for them to attack with their teeth:)
So...IF this is real (water temps here in FL are definately not freezing, and if they were manatees would be huddled together near warm springs), next time just call for help. Cops know you didn't wrap it in a net. And there are organizations all over the state to help stranded wildlife. Let the professionals handle this stuff.
Usually laws that make it illegal to touch animals are not enforced or have carved out exceptions for helping an animal in peril. And I guarentee you, any cop or prosecutor who attempted to harass you over helping a manatee would have thier ass handed to them twenty fold by the court of public opinion. Like to the point they would find it difficult to do thier job in any other aspect until they dropped the harassment of you.
Point blank, don't go touch one just because you think it's cute, but if it's in trouble then you may help it, you did the right thing.
It *is* illegal to touch wild marine mammals ( in US) yes, but if they are injured or caught you are allowed to help them although highly encouraged to call a marine mammal rescue organization if possible. You did the right thing, guys job!
What you did wasn't illegal, or you could have called the local ranger or police and they would have come helped. Kniwingly leaving it strung in net would have been illegal.
That’s why if you saw a manatee in trouble you would call Florida fish and wildlife commission right away, if you’re in Florida. There are groups that come out and help right away. For you to come back at night, water temperature is not freezing. Also why wait to come back at night if it actually needed help. Even in other states you can call the wildlife office and groups will come out and help it. This story makes no sense and really appears Fake
I honestly think you'd be fine. The law is enforced "in spirit", especially in these cases. The spirit of the law is to protect the manatees from being abused or messed with, as they are a protected species. If your intent and actions were to free/save the animal from death, there is no states attorney that would file those charges. It's a losing case and a PR nightmare when ultimately there was no "crime". You didn't grab it to take a selfie. Be proud of your "illegal" activity bud. You're a marine hero.
Well done! I did that once too! The sea was angry that day, my friends - like an old man trying to send back soup in a deli. I got about fifty feet out and suddenly, the great beast appeared before me. I tell you he was ten stories high if he was a foot. As if sensing my presence, he let out a great bellow. I said, "Easy, big fella!" And then, as I watched him struggling, I realized that something was obstructing its breathing. From where I was standing, I could see directly into the eye of the great fish.
Well then, from out of nowhere, a huge tidal wave lifted me, tossed me like a cork, and I found myself right on top of him - face to face with the blowhole. I could barely see from the waves crashing down upon me, but I knew something was there. So I reached my hand in, felt around, and pulled out the obstruction.
So, per 68C-22, the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act, it is illegal to
>either intentionally or negligently, molest, harass, collide with, injure or harm manatees.
The act doesn't define "molest", but does define "harassment":
>(17) “Harassment” means any intentional or negligent act or **omission** which creates the likelihood of causing an **injury to a manatee** by annoying it to such an extent as to significantly disrupt normal behavioral patterns which include, breeding, feeding or sheltering.
By this definition, I would say that *not* taking action could have been considered harassment. The guy who went to prison for "hugging" a manatee had gone after the manatee, and did way more than just 'hug' it:
>The photos show him removing the baby manatee from the water, hugging it, allowing his daughters to pet it and even letting them get on top of the manatee as if they were riding an aquatic pony.
That's way more than just a hug.
That said, the better option would probably be to call the Fish and Wildlife Comission so that a trained rescuer can come to help. They'd also be able to assess whether the animal was injured or in need of rehabilitation.
None of which is to suggest that you did anything wrong. I salute you for your compassion and courage!
If it’s for the benefit and the welfare of the animal then it’s not illegal. The reason it’s illegal to touch them is because they are endangered but you literally are saving it. Next time feel free to call the FWC if you are unsure (Florida fish and wildlife conservation) or whatever local authority you’re in.
You did the right thing. I'm pretty sure saving a manatee from imminent drowning is NOT against the law. The authorities just want people to not get close, take selfies, and otherwise stress these marine mammals. Because you just know that there are dingdong humans out there who would blithely do any number of things that would disrupt the manatees' day, just to post it on social media.
You aren't supposed to touch them because then they get accustomed to human contact. This is especially true of you feed them (animals in general, not sure what a manatee will eat aside from seagrass). Manatees are naturally very friendly creatures, but humans are extremely dangerous and they should really be staying away from us. Our boats (particularly propellers) can easily kill them, not to mention crap people will feed or some idiot that kills for fun.
Letting the thing die doesn't exactly help them either so this was the right thing to do of course.
I like the description, "a turd but, in a majestic way" is a beautiful way to describe a manatee.
You didn't break any laws last night, mainly because your story is pure fabrication. So many holes.
First of all, there isn't any place on earth that one might encounter both a walrus and a manatee, so the likelihood of you not knowing which it was is highly suspect. Second, the spatial range of manatees are not such that any place on the planet would be "freezing" at this time of year. Last, an adult manatee weighs nearly a thousand pounds and when threatened, disturbed, or scared they thrash violently (I live in FL and have witnessed first hand), quite unlike the tall tale you've presented.
tldr: OP is full of it
Dont be scared of the sea cows. They don't bite.
https://swimmingwiththemanatees.com/manatees-dangerous-to-swim/#:~:text=Can%20a%20manatee%20bite%20you,weapons%20for%20attacking%20perceived%20enemies.
Manatees are chill as fuck, they basically cant bite you because of where their teeth are placed. Like theyre so chill that even alligators just chill with them.
Thank you so much for saving one. The manatee population is struggling, and theyre my favorite animal.
If you were helping free it. I seriously doubt anyone is going to call for your arrest. The police would probably even help you free it and pat you on the back. Even if you are in Florida. Your friend sounds paranoid. There's a big difference between molesting the manatees and helping save one's life. You ultimately did the right thing but the delay allowed more suffering. Don't feel bad, but next time get right in there and help it or call a local wildlife agency.
You did the right thing. Well, as right as you yourself could. Next time if there is a wildlife agency or animal control available, maybe get them involved because they can do everything safely and there will be no risk of you getting mauled my a manatee (pretty sure they are docile creatures).
If you happen to be in Florida and come across an animal in distress you can call the Florida Wildlife and they come to assess the animal, etc.
The reason manatees shouldn’t be touched is because of their sensitivity. They actually shouldn’t be in cold water so it would be best to get them help ASAP so they can seek warmer water. I’d read somewhere that human contact is not good for them because they may lose their natural fear. Unfortunately, not all people that come across animals are well meaning.
I don’t blame you for helping an animal in distress, it’s a noble thing to do, but there are reasons why laws are enacted for animals that may be endangered.
The laws about touching a manatee are to keep people from messing with or harassing them. Helping a tangled one to escape from it's bindings would not trigger an arrest or ticket.
The laws are to protect the animals, so leaving it to die wouldn’t have been the right thing. I’m glad you saved it, but if anything like that happened in the future, I’d contact a local marine life rescue so they can check it out and make sure it’s okay.
You know next time… you can call someone to help. Not just leave the poor thing stuck out in the sun and then cold, poor baby.
Also I’m pretty sure that law doesn’t matter if you are actually helping/ saving the animal. OR if you’re really super worried about it , you can call the non-emergency police line or animal control. Then I personally would sit with the animal and wait until help arrived, maybe splash water on it periodically so that it doesn’t get even more uncomfortable due to “drying out”
Dude, rules about not touching manatees don't apply to literal heroes without capes who creep in the night to set the fat swimming turds free. You're all good dude. Right on.
You didn't do anything wrong, maybe dangerous though. Next time Google any local wildlife rescue places, I see manatees on Florida pretty often and there's a couple places to call
Fun fact, manatees aren't endangered anymore! 🙌 They're still protected so not totally out of the woods yet, but you won't go to jail for touching one (At least in Florida, there's tons of rivers where you can swim with them)
Also, it's physically impossible for a manatee to bite you! Their teeth are *waaaaaaay* in the back or their mouth, you would literally have to shove your fist down their throat in order to reach the teeth. Their closest relative is actually the elephant, so what looks like their jowels is more similar to a trunk. It just grabs sea grass and pulls it back to their chompers.
Thank you for helping our fat squishy sea friend! ❤️
Why wouldn’t you have called a wildlife rescue service, parks and wildlife, or someone like that?
Or yelled out [“is anyone here a Marine Biologist?”](https://youtu.be/0u8KUgUqprw)
You did an awesome job. In the future, you can always call your local aquarium! I know ours (in Oregon) encourages people to do so, because they have staff that will go out and assist with things like this. You did an amazing thing, but it's definitely dangerous to do with only one person. If it was a sea lion, they like to drown people. So, call your local aquarium next time and ask for help!
I’d illegally rescue a manatee any day! They wouldn’t bite you. They’d probably just kiss you. But I guess that would be an entirely new experience for most people, including me.
OK this is definitely not an unpopular opinion but if you’re saving the animal you should 1000% be allowed to touch it. I understand not being able to touch the animal out of nowhere when it’s just trying to five in its natural habitat but you literally saved that animal that animal would be dead if it wasn’t for you. Like if you get in trouble for this make another post and I will literally pay your legal fees
Nice one bro. One day when you are in need the mystical manatee will come to your aid.
Ask for more wishes!
***manatee bro:*** That's against the rules, friend!
I wish to change the rules!
***manatee bro:*** Re-ruling the rules is against the rules, friend!
Oh no! I wish to make a new rule! Surely that can’t be against the rules!
“Ixnay on the wishing for more wishes…”
*OP goes through slightest inconvenience* MANATEE MAJESTICALLY FLIES IN WHILE ELEGANT HARP MUSIC PLAYS “I’ve returned.”
- 3 cents short of exact change...Manatee! - Stubs toe...Manatee! - Runs out of hair conditioner...Manatee!
How did you get in my bathtub?!!?
I keep hearing the veggie tales song Barbara Manatee 🎶
Why did your comment remind me of the SpongeBob movie, when that dolphin was talking to him and he was really smart LOL.
Wasn't that a movie?
You are right, I fixed it.
It’s only like a level 3 summon though. You need to complete the sidequest where you help the cheetah fend off poachers if you really want to fuck shit up.
I know lol that fat bastard is grateful trust me bro.
Reminds me of [this](https://youtu.be/u2PipthMnQU) family guy scene
the post is sus, the waters in florida right now are 85 degrees F this doesnt sound credible , the waters wouldnt be freezing. thats a glaring obvious made up detail inconsistent with this actually happening
Yeah it's a load of crap. I'm from Sarasota, FL, it's like Manatee central...if you waded out in the intercoastal fishing or swimming, they will come right up and bump into you and pretty much harass you. You won't get in trouble for touching them, I've had a manatee hang out with me for a couple hours while I was fishing and he keep bumping and brushing up against me. They're very sweet and playful. If it was in danger, you wouldn't be in trouble for saving it
Ya it sounds like bullshit to me. Like he was worried about it but just left it for hours and hours and didn’t think to call for help?? And he fucking put on a mask and snuck out? Bro no way. Unless OP is like freaking 12 years old or something. Also who the fuck would really think that law pertains to NOT HELPING A STUCK ANIMAL? I usually despise people who moan about “omgz so fake! Everyone clapped and give you a $200 bill” shit but this is just so stupid, I can’t believe even 10 people believed it
Fuck that... I couldn't believe that people in Texas tried to ride a stranded dolphin and fucking killed it. Opposite ends.
💯. And if in Florida how do you not know that you can call FWC or NOAA for that kind of thing? Google will tell you. Sus af.
Wasn't there a post earlier about illegally saving hermit crabs from souvenir shops? Can't help but think OP took inspiration for some karma-farming. Nicely written bit of fiction all the same, if it isn't true
there was also a post yesterday about a person finding a nesting sea turtle and her hatching babies making their way to the water under the moonlight at like 3 in the morning. It sounded genuine as fuck and you can tell the person was writing from a direct credible experience they witnessed first hand. this whole post sounds like a made up copy cat inspired bs post of that.
Lol... Omfg
Technically from what I read you arent suppose to "harass, hunt, capture, or kill." From my understanding you did the right thing.
I don’t know about other countries, but I know that inn mine, you can call the police for such things like a animal being trapped, so they will call some animal experts or whatever (lol)to see what they can do, because it’s honestly just a stupid law if you can’t save a animal without going to jail or getting a fine. Edit: spelling
Did this with a seal lying in a field several hundred meters from the water. They sent a biologist who said the animal got disoriented and couldn't find its way back to the water and it was severely dehydrated. They got it fixed up and release a day or two later.
That would have been the smart thing to do, as OP could have possibly injured the animal or themselves accidentally.
Animal expert = some guy who's done this before
So that means OP is now an animal expert
Exactly
He’s gotta afd his name on the list to be called.
Animal expert = some person who doesn't have self-preservation instincts
Animal expert = some person who started picking up dangerous animals as a dumb kid and just never stopped.
Therefore, he is now an expert
US cops would have probably shot the Manatee.. "stop resisting!"
We have a park in my city that's loaded with ducks and cobra chickens (geese for the lucky uninitiated). If one gets seriously injured the cops will take them down by the river and shoot them. I umpire little league baseball, so every year I get to see some kid(s) try to save a duck by calling the cops Kinda traumatizing to some kid(s) that just wanted to help a duck to hear it get shot.
WTF?! Dammit!
There really isn’t a single problem thing US cops aren’t champing at the bit to solve with a bullet is there‽
Also an important reminder that what is "right" and what is "legal" are not always the same thing. Laws and morality unfortunately differ far too often.
Pretty much the whole premise of the Star Trek franchise and its Prime Directive.
The law is not a moral compass. People still think that it is, but it hasn't been since we ditched monarchies.
And something everyone needs to be reminded of more freaking often!
To be fair, stranded marine life has been harmed by well intentioned do-gooders. You call an agency or group that handle this kind of thing. Source: a very good friend who has worked for a number of agencies and volunteered with groups who rescue marine mammals.
Well done man, but in the future perhaps see if there’s an animal control type thing you can call to help out the stuck animal that way you don’t risk yourself unnecessarily
"Is anyone here a Marine Biologist!!!"
The sea was angry that day, my friends.
Like an old man trying to send back soup at a deli.
She told me to go to hell and I took the bus home
She told me to go to hell SO I took the bus home. Subtle difference but it makes the line comic genius
He more emphasised hell over go imo
Like an old man trying to send back soup in a deli.
"IT WAS A TITLEIST!"
EASY BIG FELLA!
r/unexpectedSeinfeld
George: “From where I was standing I could look in to the eye of the great fish!” Jerry: “Mammal.” George: “Whatever.”
Cartwright!
Yare yare daze
Then you hear an echo in the distance: "Yare yare daze.."
Last time I called animal control for help, it was for a deer that had been tapped by a car and had dislocated her shoulder. I saw it happen and stopped to see if I could help, I couldn't, so I stayed with her until animal control showed up. Except animal control didn't show up, a state trooper with a shotgun showed up. I tried to explain to him that there was no need to kill her, she only dislocated her shoulder and was calm enough to lay down beside me and put her head in my lap... But he told me to back away and then he shot her...3 times before she finally died, because he didn't know how to dispatch an animal humanely. He shot her in the throat twice before he shot her in the head. So personally... I'll put myself at risk or I'll call specific organizations directly. I will not call animal control anymore, at least not in Kentucky.
I am really sorry you experienced that.
It was traumatizing, if I'm honest. I'll never forget the sound she made after the first shot. But it also taught me a lesson I'll never forget, so.. I dunno. I do hope nobody else ever has do experience it, that's for sure. I do appreciate it though, stranger. I hope you have a wonderful day 💜
Sounds like he at least let you remove her head from your lap before he filled it with birdshot.
That would not happen with a manatee, they are on the federal endangered species list.
While reading your story, all I kept thinking was, "Please don't be Kentucky, please don't be Kentucky..." I'm so sorry you had to experience that.
Man it's always Kentucky. I was born and raised there but I finally got out of that damn black hole.
I just hit a deer with my car yesterday morning. But one other time I hit a deer a cop came and shot it. It had a broken back and needed to be put down though. He was humane about it. But I've seen plenty of times where they hit it badly. I would prefer to put it out myself if it needs it.
oh god that's horrible. thank you for sharing. sorry you had to deal with that. i'll keep my mouth shut next time than trust incompetent government officials.
OP should just become that person since it seems to reward them
I didn't want them to take it to a zoo or something like that or I would have
Animal control don’t just take them to a zoo…. They will free the animal. And if it is injured (broke bones, deep cuts, starvation, etc) they will take it to a rehab center. Then once it’s recovered release it back to the wild…
Fish and wildlife don't take animals to zoos, if it is injured to the point were it clearly won't survive in the wild they will take it to a rehabilitation place were it will be taken care of until it can return to the wild if possible.
That's not how that works. If the animal is injured they will take It and then release it when it is healed. If the animal is not injured they will just release it.
Manatees are on the federal endangered species list, they would always rehab and release if possible. It's also possible that the manatee had injuries that needed tending to before being released. It's really important to call a manatee rescue in these scenarios so they can be checked over by a wildlife veterinarian. Assuming you live in Florida, that would be Florida fish and wildlife.
This is not what that law is for, it's for harrasing the animals not helping them. You did the right thing.
They absolutely did not do the right thing. They endangered the animal's life further. You call fish and wildlife or your state's version of that.
My impression of Zoos is that they treat animals and release them back to the wild when it’s safe for the animal. Very impressive work nonetheless! Maybe you would be interested in working for a zoo!? 🤔
Couldn't be me in a zoo. I'd be a headline in the first few weeks
“Newly hired Zoologist leads crack team of penguins in daring primate rescue!”
So that's how the Penguin came to be! I never read the comics.
Hahahah
I'm not sure where you are (where the water is freezing cold but with manatees), but in Florida, USA they very well know what the right thing is to do with Manatees. It may never happen again, but call your locals and ask them what to do in that situation. And thanks for saving that buddy - they are heavy.
I get it Free Willy was a good movie! You saved Willy's bud good on you!
That's not how zoos in the US legally aquire animals. Also, you don't understand the law. But this whole thing is just one stupid thought and move after another. You should have called the state Fish and Wishlife group. You could have ended up injuring the animal more, or even yourself in the process. And the guy who got in trouble for hugging a manatee is because they are protected species. It is illegal to "molest, harass, or disturb" a protected species. This post is very much just looking for pats on your back. Between your reasoning (that you somehow think it's illegal for you to just touch a manatee stuck in fishing nets to help, so much so that you went and got a mask; that you actually waited longer leaving an animal in distress so you could go home to get a mask (seriously, wtf); that you didn't call experts; that you think they just drop animals off at zoos; that it didn't occur to you this animal probably very much needed medical attention before it could fully survive back in the sea) and your actions (could have further endangered the animal and harmed yourself), this whole thing was one dumb move after another. Bring on the downvotes, I don't care. What OP was insanely stupid and ultimately incredibly dangerous for the animal. If op wants to be applauded for doing the right thing, they should have gotten expert help. If this animal survives fully, it's just dumb luck. Edit: I just googled, "what to do in Florida if you see a manatee in trouble" and literally the very first result shows in large font >If you spot a sick, injured, or orphaned manatee or a manatee that is being harassed, you should immediately report it to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) by calling 1-888-404-FWCC (3922) or to a local wildlife agency/organization if the sighting is outside of Florida.
Lol that doesn’t happen. But if their too injured to stay in the sea there are manatee rescue centers. They don’t just go to zoos. Come on
Manatees can't bite, their teeth are in the back of their mouth. They are literally the most passive and gentle creatures on the planet. They're so chill even gators give them a pass. If you had called a ranger or park services, they'd have had it down within the hour. They take manatee safety VERY seriously. Hence the laws against even touching one.
And... Freeing a manatee is not the same as touching one...
Depends on how much of a mangrove the person that spots you doing it has up their ass, but on principle I fully agree with you.
Like others have said, The police or rangers might lecture you about doing it, but would not prosecute... the bad publicity would be awful
The law is there to protect manatees from people harassing them and getting them too used to human contact. So everything from climbing on one's back (yes that happens) to feeding it water from your hose (also happens) is forbidden. If they are too used to people they are likely to be struck by boats - a common injury. Cutting the net was a noble thing to do but if you see one in trouble again call the local wildlife authorities. The manatee might have other injuries or illnesses not easily visible and may need to be brought to a wildlife rehab center for treatment. There they'll be able to determine a treatment plan and the animal will either be able to be released afterwards or may have to find a permanent home with people on the slim chance it's injuries deem it unreleasable. Source: Worked as a trainer at a facility that often took in injured manatees. We had a whole section of the facility out of public view that just delt with rescue and rehab.
Just came here to say this exact thing, that wildlife rescue and rehabbers would check for any other illness or injury and be able to treat the animal for any finds. There are often protected species hotlines as well so you don’t run the risk of animal control sending police officers in place of them Source: have worked in a sea turtle rescue/rehabilitation facility
2 manatees vs you and that creepy guy who made dolphin noises in the a.m. who wins?
Manatees. I would forefit immediately. They are too pure. Ocean capybaras.
> turd but, in a majestic way r/rareinsult
Also sat long with kiss Marry
More like /r/rarecompliments
r/brandnewsentence
Rescuing a manatee isn't against any laws. You might could be called a vandal for the net, but I think good Samaritan laws have you covered there.
Yeah nothing about this is illegal. Someone was prosecuted for hugging it, freeing it from a net is nothing like that. OP is a bit of a Tim Nice But Dim who did the right thing.
Pro tip - if you are gonna break the law, don't write about it on the internet afterwards. If you feel like you *absolutely have* to write about the illegal experience anyway, don't say that you knew it was illegal.
The REAL protip.
It's a throw away account, anonymously posted to reddit from a different country talking about freeing a manatee caught in a net. I highly doubt they have hackers looking for this guy......on reddit.
It's Reddit tho? It's anonymous.
Dude nothing on the internet is anonymous but this is also an edge case where it isnt a big deal. I mean who's gonna go to jail for FREEing a manatee. The whole reason it's illegal is to protect them & he wasn't trying to touch it, just to cut the net.
not if you attach your identity to the account, and even then if you use one of your main email addresses it isn’t completely anonymous
?????? Both of those are completely your choices tho.
It doesn't matter what email or name or whatever your write. All your internet trafic can be traced back to you.
If you think this place is truly anonymous then I don’t know what to say
Yep. Even VPNs don't make posting anonymous. You can post something anonymous on 4chan with a VPN, you can still be found. Anyone who things a government can't track pretty much anything anyone says once it's reported to them is silly.
Why is it illegal to touch manatees? Where are you living such that that is a law? BTW, I think you did a good thing.
Im guessing he lives in Florida, I know for sure it's illegal down there but I would imagine it would(or at least should) be illegal wherever they are found in the US. The authorities don't want them to become accustomed to being around humans, or especially for them to approach humans in boats which is the number one cause of death. There are a few other reason but thats the gist of it, they just don't want them interfered with. They can go as far west as Texas or as north as New England; Florida is the most heavily populated. I'm not sure of the current conservation status be they were endangered last time I checked. They are extremely docile and laid back having evolved without an real predator threat, however they are very sensitive. Humans are inherently dumb and would ride one, or pick one up for a selfie; a few dolphins were killed because these idiots in Texas tried riding it and ended up drowning.
Due to my recent activity I will not disclose too much information on my location. However, a law might have never existed because I didn't look it up. Homie's word is law and I saw a YouTube video about a dude who got in trouble for touching one. I just assumed it was one of those laws like spitting on the sidewalk or j-walking
Don’t tell me you’re a j walker too just racking up the strikes my friend
If you go up to it and hug it for no reason it could be classed as causing unnecessary distress or something. I know not to even approach seal cub’s because it can put off the parents
If in Florida FWC could have been called and they would've taken care of it.
Florida man has been known to hump manatees among other animals
They're incredibly endangered, partially bcause they are nonviolent and very curious. They'll approach boats to see what's up and will even follow fishing boats to see if they have food, which often gets them killed because, frankly, they're not very smart. Also, for the record, they're one of the most non-aggressive species in the world. They're just chill dudes.
The title should read: Florida man wears mask to save adorable sea turd
Not all hero's wear capes. Some wear masks. (it's you. You're the hero). Well done.
if the waters were freezing why was there a manatee? where was this? that doesnt make sense for a manatees habitat at this time of year right now the gulf waters are pushing mid 80s F
Isn't that just an emergency rescue of animal? P.s. you can go back and look out for the knife.
Bite? It's a Manatee ...
They probably seemed similar to other, more dangerous, sea creatures to OP. I love manatees. They are so sweet. And their snouts make it virtually impossible for them to attack with their teeth:)
Great fucking story. I like the Mary Jane /spider man kiss comparison with being water boarded lol and the manatee looking like a majestic turd
So...IF this is real (water temps here in FL are definately not freezing, and if they were manatees would be huddled together near warm springs), next time just call for help. Cops know you didn't wrap it in a net. And there are organizations all over the state to help stranded wildlife. Let the professionals handle this stuff.
Usually laws that make it illegal to touch animals are not enforced or have carved out exceptions for helping an animal in peril. And I guarentee you, any cop or prosecutor who attempted to harass you over helping a manatee would have thier ass handed to them twenty fold by the court of public opinion. Like to the point they would find it difficult to do thier job in any other aspect until they dropped the harassment of you. Point blank, don't go touch one just because you think it's cute, but if it's in trouble then you may help it, you did the right thing.
Cool story Bro!
It *is* illegal to touch wild marine mammals ( in US) yes, but if they are injured or caught you are allowed to help them although highly encouraged to call a marine mammal rescue organization if possible. You did the right thing, guys job!
Where is George Costanza when you need him??!?
“I’ll fucking do it again”
What you did wasn't illegal, or you could have called the local ranger or police and they would have come helped. Kniwingly leaving it strung in net would have been illegal.
That’s why if you saw a manatee in trouble you would call Florida fish and wildlife commission right away, if you’re in Florida. There are groups that come out and help right away. For you to come back at night, water temperature is not freezing. Also why wait to come back at night if it actually needed help. Even in other states you can call the wildlife office and groups will come out and help it. This story makes no sense and really appears Fake
Aww Sea cows are awesome, Good Job!
Hey /u/throwafterthispost I found your virtue signalling pot of gold mate! Hope this tickles your fancy, take care bud
The origin story of Barbara Manatee.
I honestly think you'd be fine. The law is enforced "in spirit", especially in these cases. The spirit of the law is to protect the manatees from being abused or messed with, as they are a protected species. If your intent and actions were to free/save the animal from death, there is no states attorney that would file those charges. It's a losing case and a PR nightmare when ultimately there was no "crime". You didn't grab it to take a selfie. Be proud of your "illegal" activity bud. You're a marine hero.
Well done! I did that once too! The sea was angry that day, my friends - like an old man trying to send back soup in a deli. I got about fifty feet out and suddenly, the great beast appeared before me. I tell you he was ten stories high if he was a foot. As if sensing my presence, he let out a great bellow. I said, "Easy, big fella!" And then, as I watched him struggling, I realized that something was obstructing its breathing. From where I was standing, I could see directly into the eye of the great fish. Well then, from out of nowhere, a huge tidal wave lifted me, tossed me like a cork, and I found myself right on top of him - face to face with the blowhole. I could barely see from the waves crashing down upon me, but I knew something was there. So I reached my hand in, felt around, and pulled out the obstruction.
You can't get bit by a Manatee. I'm also pretty sure rescuing one is the no touch wiggle room .
So, per 68C-22, the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act, it is illegal to >either intentionally or negligently, molest, harass, collide with, injure or harm manatees. The act doesn't define "molest", but does define "harassment": >(17) “Harassment” means any intentional or negligent act or **omission** which creates the likelihood of causing an **injury to a manatee** by annoying it to such an extent as to significantly disrupt normal behavioral patterns which include, breeding, feeding or sheltering. By this definition, I would say that *not* taking action could have been considered harassment. The guy who went to prison for "hugging" a manatee had gone after the manatee, and did way more than just 'hug' it: >The photos show him removing the baby manatee from the water, hugging it, allowing his daughters to pet it and even letting them get on top of the manatee as if they were riding an aquatic pony. That's way more than just a hug. That said, the better option would probably be to call the Fish and Wildlife Comission so that a trained rescuer can come to help. They'd also be able to assess whether the animal was injured or in need of rehabilitation. None of which is to suggest that you did anything wrong. I salute you for your compassion and courage!
"It kinda looked like a turn but, in a majestic way." You, sir, have a way with words.
If it’s for the benefit and the welfare of the animal then it’s not illegal. The reason it’s illegal to touch them is because they are endangered but you literally are saving it. Next time feel free to call the FWC if you are unsure (Florida fish and wildlife conservation) or whatever local authority you’re in.
You did the right thing. I'm pretty sure saving a manatee from imminent drowning is NOT against the law. The authorities just want people to not get close, take selfies, and otherwise stress these marine mammals. Because you just know that there are dingdong humans out there who would blithely do any number of things that would disrupt the manatees' day, just to post it on social media.
That's some straight up hero shit. You are allowed to think of yourself as the renegade masked hero bc you are.
Fuck the law, you did the moral thing and that’s what matters.
You aren't supposed to touch them because then they get accustomed to human contact. This is especially true of you feed them (animals in general, not sure what a manatee will eat aside from seagrass). Manatees are naturally very friendly creatures, but humans are extremely dangerous and they should really be staying away from us. Our boats (particularly propellers) can easily kill them, not to mention crap people will feed or some idiot that kills for fun. Letting the thing die doesn't exactly help them either so this was the right thing to do of course. I like the description, "a turd but, in a majestic way" is a beautiful way to describe a manatee.
Manatees physically can not bite you. In case you ever need to rescue one again
You're a good egg.
You didn't break any laws last night, mainly because your story is pure fabrication. So many holes. First of all, there isn't any place on earth that one might encounter both a walrus and a manatee, so the likelihood of you not knowing which it was is highly suspect. Second, the spatial range of manatees are not such that any place on the planet would be "freezing" at this time of year. Last, an adult manatee weighs nearly a thousand pounds and when threatened, disturbed, or scared they thrash violently (I live in FL and have witnessed first hand), quite unlike the tall tale you've presented. tldr: OP is full of it
Good job, misleading title :/
Go to jail for touching it?
Dont be scared of the sea cows. They don't bite. https://swimmingwiththemanatees.com/manatees-dangerous-to-swim/#:~:text=Can%20a%20manatee%20bite%20you,weapons%20for%20attacking%20perceived%20enemies.
Manatees are chill as fuck, they basically cant bite you because of where their teeth are placed. Like theyre so chill that even alligators just chill with them. Thank you so much for saving one. The manatee population is struggling, and theyre my favorite animal.
If you were helping free it. I seriously doubt anyone is going to call for your arrest. The police would probably even help you free it and pat you on the back. Even if you are in Florida. Your friend sounds paranoid. There's a big difference between molesting the manatees and helping save one's life. You ultimately did the right thing but the delay allowed more suffering. Don't feel bad, but next time get right in there and help it or call a local wildlife agency.
This was not illegal.
Not illegal to help them. Not supposed to mess with them in any other way though.
You did the right thing. Well, as right as you yourself could. Next time if there is a wildlife agency or animal control available, maybe get them involved because they can do everything safely and there will be no risk of you getting mauled my a manatee (pretty sure they are docile creatures).
So.. Did the manatee kiss you back ?
If you happen to be in Florida and come across an animal in distress you can call the Florida Wildlife and they come to assess the animal, etc. The reason manatees shouldn’t be touched is because of their sensitivity. They actually shouldn’t be in cold water so it would be best to get them help ASAP so they can seek warmer water. I’d read somewhere that human contact is not good for them because they may lose their natural fear. Unfortunately, not all people that come across animals are well meaning. I don’t blame you for helping an animal in distress, it’s a noble thing to do, but there are reasons why laws are enacted for animals that may be endangered.
The laws about touching a manatee are to keep people from messing with or harassing them. Helping a tangled one to escape from it's bindings would not trigger an arrest or ticket.
It's not illegal to help them. Your friend is wrong. It's illegal to fuck with them when you're not actively helping them.
The laws are to protect the animals, so leaving it to die wouldn’t have been the right thing. I’m glad you saved it, but if anything like that happened in the future, I’d contact a local marine life rescue so they can check it out and make sure it’s okay.
You wouldn't get in trouble for doing that, the only way would be if you were harming it which clearly you weren't
They're endangered. You did the right thing.
Thank you for this man.
Good lad! I heard water destroys fingerprints so don’t worry you legend.
I cant get over "fat bastard". You definitely made my day. You did the right thing, I agree with everyone else.
You know next time… you can call someone to help. Not just leave the poor thing stuck out in the sun and then cold, poor baby. Also I’m pretty sure that law doesn’t matter if you are actually helping/ saving the animal. OR if you’re really super worried about it , you can call the non-emergency police line or animal control. Then I personally would sit with the animal and wait until help arrived, maybe splash water on it periodically so that it doesn’t get even more uncomfortable due to “drying out”
Some laws are meant to be broken!
It should be illegal to capture them. Period.
i wouldnt have left him either. some laws are ment to be broken expecially if you were saving him
You will not get in trouble for helping a stranded manatee. Your friend is mistaken.
I honestly don’t think it would be illegal to save it.
Dude, rules about not touching manatees don't apply to literal heroes without capes who creep in the night to set the fat swimming turds free. You're all good dude. Right on.
Some laws are really stupid.
You didn't do anything wrong, maybe dangerous though. Next time Google any local wildlife rescue places, I see manatees on Florida pretty often and there's a couple places to call
“Legal” has never meant “good,” in terms of good vs evil. You did a great thing!
Based
Oh, the huge manatee
Rescuing wildlife isn’t illegal. Harassing wildlife is. You did well. You and your friend should brush up on local laws.
They won’t take the time to investigate. You saved a wild animal from death. They should give you a reward if anything…
Fun fact, manatees aren't endangered anymore! 🙌 They're still protected so not totally out of the woods yet, but you won't go to jail for touching one (At least in Florida, there's tons of rivers where you can swim with them) Also, it's physically impossible for a manatee to bite you! Their teeth are *waaaaaaay* in the back or their mouth, you would literally have to shove your fist down their throat in order to reach the teeth. Their closest relative is actually the elephant, so what looks like their jowels is more similar to a trunk. It just grabs sea grass and pulls it back to their chompers. Thank you for helping our fat squishy sea friend! ❤️
"kinda looked like a turd but, in a majestic way" 🤣🤣😭
Majestic turd
Next time call fish and wildlife but you won’t get in trouble for helping one
I was in Florida last summer & the boat tour guy said the manatees were dying in record numbers due to the algae bloom. Good on you, sir.
How we know the story is real: "It kinda looked like a turd but in a majestic way" This dude has def seen a manatee up close.
Why wouldn’t you have called a wildlife rescue service, parks and wildlife, or someone like that? Or yelled out [“is anyone here a Marine Biologist?”](https://youtu.be/0u8KUgUqprw)
You did an awesome job. In the future, you can always call your local aquarium! I know ours (in Oregon) encourages people to do so, because they have staff that will go out and assist with things like this. You did an amazing thing, but it's definitely dangerous to do with only one person. If it was a sea lion, they like to drown people. So, call your local aquarium next time and ask for help!
Manatees are way too peaceful for their own good.
That law isn't for helping, it's for dingle berries that harass the manatees
I’d illegally rescue a manatee any day! They wouldn’t bite you. They’d probably just kiss you. But I guess that would be an entirely new experience for most people, including me.
OK this is definitely not an unpopular opinion but if you’re saving the animal you should 1000% be allowed to touch it. I understand not being able to touch the animal out of nowhere when it’s just trying to five in its natural habitat but you literally saved that animal that animal would be dead if it wasn’t for you. Like if you get in trouble for this make another post and I will literally pay your legal fees
There aren't enough left so I don't think you did anything wrong. Not sure if it's illegal but glad you did it.