UPDATE: Florida lawmakers are urgently calling for change following a shocking viral video that captured five men hoisting a live giant manta ray onto their boat off the coast of Panama City Beach on July 12, 2025. This disturbing incident has prompted bipartisan outrage, with officials demanding accountability for the capture of this federally protected species.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has faced intense scrutiny after confirming it issued a special license allowing the capture for SeaWorld Abu Dhabi. Lawmakers—including U.S. Rep. Brian Mast and state Rep. Lindsay Cross—are now pressing the agency to revoke this permit and suspend any future licenses that enable the capture of endangered species.
In a letter sent on Friday, the coalition of lawmakers emphasized the need for immediate action, stating, “It is particularly troubling that this license was granted absent public input.” They argued that the lack of oversight endangers the long-term welfare of captured animals and undermines Florida’s marine conservation legacy.
Florida is the only state allowing the live removal of animals listed under the federal Endangered Species Act for commercial and entertainment purposes. Experts warn that giant manta rays, known for their majestic presence, are not suited for captivity and often suffer high mortality rates in enclosed environments.
The lawmakers’ letter also highlighted the case of a manta ray previously captured under the same program, which was euthanized after its health deteriorated in a holding tank in the Florida Keys. This alarming trend raises serious questions about the ethics of such practices and the effectiveness of the current regulatory framework.
Witness Denis Richard, a dolphin tour boat operator, recorded the manta ray’s capture and voiced his disgust, shouting, “Let him go! You ought to be ashamed of yourselves.” His emotional plea resonates with many who view the incident as a violation of the natural rights of marine life.
The public outcry has prompted the FWC to reassess its policies. Shannon Knowles, a spokesperson for the agency, acknowledged receipt of the lawmakers’ letter but has yet to provide a comprehensive response. Meanwhile, the coalition is demanding transparency by requesting all public records related to the issuance of the permit to Dynasty Marine Associates, the aquarium supplier involved in the capture.
As this story develops, lawmakers are advocating for the FWC to engage independent scientists to evaluate the health of Florida’s protected marine species. They are also calling for new regulations to prevent the capture of endangered animals moving forward.
The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. Florida’s waters are home to a significant population of migrating adult manta rays and a rare nursery habitat that has been closely monitored by the Florida Manta Project since 2016. This project aims to protect the species, which faces dangers such as entanglement in fishing lines and collisions with boats.
The emotional impact of the video has left many advocates and lawmakers distressed. Rep. Cross expressed her concern, stating, “It’s just so hard to see an animal go through that.” She urged the FWC to address this incident at its upcoming November commission meeting to prevent future occurrences.
The situation remains fluid as lawmakers push for a complete overhaul of the regulations governing the capture of endangered marine species in Florida. The outcome of this urgent call for action could reshape how the state protects its beloved marine life moving forward. As the public awaits a response from the FWC, the spotlight remains on the ethical implications of capturing endangered species for commercial gain.
Stay tuned for further updates on this critical issue affecting Florida’s marine conservation efforts.
