More than a dozen manatees which got stuck in a drainage pipe in Satellite Beach, Florida, have been pulled free by firefighters.

It is thought the animals were seeking greater warmth during a recent cold snap, and ended up getting stuck in the pipe.

The chief of Satellite Beach fire department said several manatees were in a state of distress.

The rescue operation continued throughout Monday night, with all mammals, including a mother and a calf, being eventually pulled from the pipe.

Local police and firefighters worked alongside experts from SeaWorld during the operation.