MOTE  Learning About Lou 

When Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium reopened its doors in November after an extended closure due to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the first visitors had the exciting opportunity to meet an adorable new face at the aquarium. Lou, a Florida manatee likely born in the late 1990s, was rescued in December 2000. He transferred to Mote in September 2024, just before the hurricanes hit and was officially acclimated to his new home by the time the aquarium reopened. Director of Animal Operations Adam Dolman says that Lou has adapted incredibly well to life at Mote. “When he first arrived in September 2024, he was a bit shy and hesitant to explore his new surroundings. However, within a few weeks, he began showing curiosity—nudging enrichment toys and following caretakers during training sessions. Today, Lou is a confident and playful resident who enjoys interacting with staff and seems to delight visiting guests with his personality,” Dolman says. Upon his arrival at Mote, Lou was gradually introduced to his new companion, Buffett—a manatee born in captivity who came to Mote in 1996. Dolman says their meeting was a carefully monitored process beginning with visual and limited physical interactions before they began sharing the same space. Since then, Dolman says they’ve developed a strong bond, “Lou and Buffett are often seen swimming together or resting side by side, and their companionship has had a positive impact on both animals.” Visitors might notice that Lou is missing part of his tail—he survived a severe boat strike before his rescue, and, as a result, cannot be released back into the wild. Buffett and Lou will both remain at Mote as long-term companions. Dolman says that Lou is full of personality. “Since Lou is missing his tail paddle, you’ll probably notice he uses his front flippers a lot more than Buffett to get around in the water. Despite this, Lou has also proven to be quite the aquatic acrobat, often gracefully twirling through the water,” Dolman says. Lou also enjoys taking naps throughout the day and foraging leafy greens from enrichment devices—although his favorite snack is sweet potatoes.  This summer, Lou and Buffett transitioned to their new home at the Mote Science Education Aquarium at Nathan Benderson Park. —C.Mould  Register for tickets at ticketing.mote.org.