MANAUS, BRAZIL - A manatee calf was rescued on Wednesday (22) after being found alone in the Amazon River in Itacoatiara, in Brazil’s Amazonas state. The animal was located by a fisherman who noticed the absence of its mother.

To ensure the calf’s survival during transport, the fisherman improvised a freezer inside a canoe and took it to the municipality.

The animal underwent initial assessments under the guidance of veterinarians from the National Institute of Amazonian Research. According to the institution, the calf appears to be in good physical condition but, as a young animal, requires specific care.

It is receiving appropriate feeding until it is transferred to Manaus, where it will undergo specialized monitoring.

The manatee is listed as an endangered species and is protected under federal law. The commercialization and consumption of its meat are considered environmental crimes.

Amazon Agency