Daytona Beach, Fla. — A female manatee and her calf have been trapped in an underwater structure in Daytona Beach since last week and rescuers don't know how to safely get them out.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials said the pair is trapped behind a structure at the Halifax Harbor Marina.
The manatees have been spotted in the structure since Thursday and may have been trapped there after they swam into the area during high tide accompanied by storm surge.
The manatee cow is continually trying to get out of the structure and teams are looking over several options, including cutting a door in the wall of the structure.
Officials said the rescue efforts are being hindered by "steep slopes, major depth and dangerous conditions overall."
A second, more dangerous option is to try to lift the sea cows out using a net and man-power.
Keep in mind, the mother weighs an estimate 1,000 pounds and there is concern the nets can tangle putting the animal in danger.
FWC biologists are meeting with Daytona Beach leaders to find the best option to rescue the manatee and her dependent calf.
Biologists say the animals are not distressed so there is time to look for a solution.