The world’s oldest known manatee living in captivity just reached another major milestone.

Snooty, the beloved manatee at the South Florida Museum in Bradenton, just turned 69.

Thousands of fans came out to Snooty’s big birthday bash on Saturday, including 13-year-old Douglas McAnulty who brought his family all the way from North Carolina to celebrate Snooty.

"He's just so sweet and adorable and always stretches his head back and how he comes out of the water," McAnulty said.

Douglas couldn’t keep his eyes off the lovable 1,300 pound manatee. He first discovered Snooty online a couple of years ago and has been hooked ever since. He was ecstatic to learn he’d be in Florida for the big day.

"It's been about a year or so that we planned to come down. He's Just been ecstatic and actually counting down the days," David McAnulty, Douglas’ dad, said.

While the celebration was for Snooty, museum directors also want to raise awareness about wildlife protection.

Snooty was born in captivity, which plays a role in his longer lifespan. Directors said manatees are vulnerable in the wild.

"Cold weather is really a big issue for manatees. Red tide is a problem because it can settle on their food. They're herbivores and so when red tide settles on seaweed it becomes toxic," Director of Living Collections Marilyn Margold said.

Manatees are also at risk when it comes to human interaction. They can fall victim to boat strikes and fishing lines.

Douglas said Snooty has inspired him to help them.

"I hope to become a marine biologist, rescuing manatees, and if Snooty is still alive, I'm going to work here," McAnulty said.

Snooty fans hope to celebrate the famous manatee for many more years to come.