Disney to move manatee, dolphins from EPCOT attractions

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — One Walt Disney World attraction is losing a few beloved friends, according to NBC affiliate WESH .

In a memo sent to WESH, Disney announced it would be removing Lou the manatee from “The Seas with Nemo and Friends” at EPCOT to another manatee rehabilitation center in Florida.

“Soon after that, we will receive one other manatee to be a companion with Lil Joe, the other manatee currently in our care. This is being done as part of a broader set of manatee moves around the state recommended by the MRP and USFWS which directs and manages the rehabilitation and conservation of manatees throughout Florida. While we will greatly miss Lou, we do look forward to aiding this other manatee in the next stage of rehabilitation as we continue to do our part in addressing the manatee crisis in Florida, which has seen declining manatee populations in the past few years,” Disney said in its memo.

Disney is reportedly working with manatee experts, including the Manatee Rehabilitation Partnership and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services, to relocate Lou.

In addition, Disney announced plans to relocate three dolphins in late October to the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park in Florida.

Disney told WESH the facility is led by a marine mammal expert who cared for the dolphins for years at The Seas.

“This decision came after a comprehensive evaluation as to what is best for these dolphins as infrastructure work progresses at The Seas. Through the extraordinary care from our team, these three male dolphins have thrived and led long lives and we will continue to be a resource while they receive the best possible care after they are moved,” the company said.

The dolphins were part of the Dolphins in Depth and DiveQuest experiences and Dinsey said it plans to honor pre-booked guests for both through Oct. 19. Disney expects DiveQuest to return in 2025.

“For decades, Walt Disney World has provided extraordinary care for thousands of fish and marine mammals – including dolphins and manatees that have served as ambassadors for their species, inspiring us about marine mammals and aiding in conservation and research efforts. As we look to the future of The Seas with Nemo & Friends at EPCOT, we are making some changes that require careful thought, prioritizing the wellbeing of these sensitive marine mammals,” Disney said.

“For decades, Walt Disney World has provided extraordinary care for thousands of fish and marine mammals – including dolphins and manatees that have served as ambassadors for their species, inspiring us about marine mammals and aiding in conservation and research efforts. As we look to the future of The Seas with Nemo & Friends at EPCOT, we are making some changes that require careful thought, prioritizing the wellbeing of these sensitive marine mammals,” Disney said.

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