ZooTampa Expansion: $33 Million Waters Project Aims to Aid Injured Manatees

A $33 million Florida Waters expansion at ZooTampa at Lowry Park in Tampa, Florida, is set to introduce enhanced care spaces for rescued manatees. The project focuses on animals that arrive with injuries often linked to collisions with boats in the wild. Senior curator Molly Guilfoyle is a key figure in the development of this new habitat.

Guilfoyle has served as a star curator at the zoo for decades. Her portfolio includes managing populations of manatees, otters, and Florida panthers. She notes that the work is intense and taken very seriously, but she values the balance provided by the community. As a devoted fan of the Tampa Bay Lightning, she finds that the local hockey team offers a necessary respite from the daily demands of mammal care.

The new facility addresses a specific need in marine conservation. Many of the manatees treated at the zoo bear visible scars from interactions with watercraft. Guilfoyle describes the species as incredible and resilient. She states that their ability to survive is a primary motivation for her daily work. The expansion aims to support this recovery process through improved living conditions.

The Florida Waters project represents a major capital investment for the institution. It expands the zoo's capacity to handle rescued wildlife. The addition of the enhanced care space allows for more specialized treatment of injured manatees. This infrastructure supports the zoo's mission to maintain the health and well-being of its mammal residents while providing a viewing experience for visitors.

The Lightning connection remains a personal highlight for Guilfoyle. She and her family, both professional and personal, follow the team closely. She observes that the team's success adds to the enjoyment of the season. The zoo continues to operate its current habitats while preparing for the new Florida Waters section.