Manatee Tracking Project
In 2024, we unexpectedly lost Gregory’s tracking device signal. Despite tireless efforts to recover it, including investing in specialized equipment and even renting a plane to search the area, we have yet to reestablish the connection. This signal is crucial for continuing our research and gaining deeper insights into the species’ movements.
However, the release site was carefully assessed beforehand. In collaboration with the Grand Amazon Lodge, which also served as our research base post-release, we chose a protected natural reserve around the Yanayacu River. Given this precaution and the favorable environment, we believe Greg and Jennifer are doing well in their new home.
We want to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who made this project possible. A special thanks to Diogo de Souza, an Amazonian manatee specialist, and Sarah Farinelli, an expert in manatee tracking and monitoring. We are also incredibly grateful to our international allies for their invaluable advice, financial support, and encouragement throughout this journey, including Save the Manatee Club, Nashville Zoo, Georgia Aquarium, and the Grand Amazon Lodge.
Your support is essential to continuing our work, and we remain hopeful that this research will pave the way for a brighter future for Amazonian manatees.
WE ARE Tracking post-release manatees in the Amazon TO GAIN VALUABLE INSIGHTS
In April 2023, Rarec released two manatees, Greg and Jennifer, after years of rehabilitation back in to the wild. This release marked the beginning of a two-year research project to monitor their daily movements. Since little is known about Amazonian manatees, RAREC hopes this research will provide valuable insights into their behaviors, migration patterns, habitat preferences, and the environmental factors affecting their survival. Understanding these aspects will help guide conservation efforts, inform decision-making, and support long-term habitat protection.
The unexpected expenses of the search added significant strain to our already limited budget, but our commitment to understanding manatee migration cycles remains. We are determined to continue our research, with the next release planned for April 2026, when Rick and Bui, two manatees currently living in one of our center’s lagoons, will be ready to return to the wild. Another release is set for 2028 with Newt, another long-term resident of our facility. Sadly, we do not believe Maynes is a suitable candidate for release due to his smaller-than-average size for his age and ongoing gastrointestinal issues.
How To Support Us
This center wouldn’t be what it is without the generous contributions of each and every one of you. Here are a few ways you can support our mission:
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