Mote Marine Lab & Aquarium Introduces Companion To Resident Manatee

SARASOTA, FL — Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium began introductions between its resident manatee, Buffett, and a potential companion on Sept. 11.

Buffett has been alone in his habitat since his brother, Hugh, died in April 2023 from injuries caused by a sexual encounter with his brother.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership agreed that Buffett should be introduced to a rescued manatee, Mote officials said in a news release.

“While Buffett’s best interests have been a focal point for USFWS, FWC and Mote, the decision to introduce another manatee to Buffett has to also be in the best interest of the companion animal, and we’re pleased that all involved agencies and organizations agree this introduction is what is in the best interest for both manatees,” Mote said.

The introduction took place in a controlled setting and the manatees’ habitat was temporarily closed to guests while it happened.

After Hugh’s death, the organizations involved decided that Buffett should remain in human care at Mote.

The brothers were born in captivity at the Miami Seaquarium and Buffett “likely would not survive outside human care,” Mote said.

While finding a compatible companion for Buffett, gender, age, size, and medical and behavioral history were considered. Mote also worked to create plans and procedures to separate two manatees within the same habitat if needed.