Jesup the manatee returns to salt springs after rehabilitation at Jacksonville Zoo The manatee was rehabilitated at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens prior to his release, but this isn't the first time that the manatee needed some extra help. Author: First Coast News Staff Published: 11:50 AM EDT May 20, 2021 Updated: 12:10 PM EDT May 20, 2021 JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — One lucky manatee is getting another chance at living a healthy life after he was released Wednesday at the Salt Springs Recreation Area of the Ocala National Forest. The manatee was rehabilitated for almost three months at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens prior to his release, but this isn't the first time that the manatee needed a little extra help.