Rescued Cape Cod Manatee Released Back Into Wild

OAKHILL, Fla. (CBS) – A pregnant manatee that became stranded on Cape Cod late this summer has been returned to the ocean off the coast of Florida following a rehabilitation stint at SeaWorld.

The manatee known as Washburn was taken from Cape Cod to Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut before eventually being flown to Florida.

Washburn had become stranded as the waters in the area became cold enough that she would not be able to survive.

SeaWorld's animal rescue team took care of Washburn and her unborn calf for two weeks after her arrival.

On Monday, Washburn was released into the waters at River Breeze Park in Oakhill, Florida.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission members recorded Washburn's measurements at the time of her release and fitted the manatee with a belt that will allow experts to monitor and track her path in the wild.

In the two weeks after she was rescued from Cape Cod, Washburn gained nearly 90 pounds thanks to a diet of lettuce. Upon her release, Washburn weighed 890 pounds.

Animal experts called Washburn's release "the beginning of a new chapter in her story."