LOWRY

Click here for a map of Lowry's travels

Due to current laws, manatees are not allowed to breed in captivity.  So it’s a big event when calves like Lowry are born in a zoo or oceanarium.  Lowry’s mom, Iona, was rescued in April of 2000 in Ft. Myers.  Iona had been hit by a boat and was unable to submerge.  She was brought to Lowry Park Zoo for treatment where baby Lowry was born in May 2000.  Unfortunately, Iona died of the injuries she received in the boat collision in 2000.  She survived just long enough to give Lowry a good start.  He thrived at Lowry and was able to be released at Warm Mineral Springs on Feb. 18, 2002 where FWC researchers will be keeping a close eye on him.

 The following pictures are from the release:

A crowd gathered to watch researchers and staff from Lowry Park Zoo and SeaWorld prepare Lowry for release.

Lowry gets weighed by a forklift before his release.

Lowry is fitted with a belt and a tag by Lucy Keith and Margie Barlas of FWC.

Lowry is checked over one more time before being carried down to the water.