Manatees in Florida

One of Florida's most iconic species, the manatee, excites locals and visitors alike. Paddle with these gentle giants at Weedon Island Preserve!

Florida Manatees

A subspecies of the West Indian manatee, Florida manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris) have a population of over 8000 individuals across the state. These large and slow moving marine mammals inhabit coastal, estuarine and riverine systems, and have an herbivorous diet consisting of seagrass and other aquatic plants. Calves stay with their mothers for up to two years, and can live up to 60 years. They reach 9-10 feet long at adulthood, and between 800-1200 pounds. 

Seasonal Patterns

Despite their size, manatees do not have a thick blubber layer like other marine mammals – and therefore can not tolerate cold temperatures. If manatees are in water under 20 degrees celsius (68 F) for extended periods of time, they are at risk for cold stress syndrome (which could be deadly for juveniles). In order to stay warm during the winter, manatees will migrate during the winter to southern passive thermal basins, Florida springs (a constant 72 degrees), or warm water outflow sights of power plants. This is why we typically see manatees in the summer months at Weedon Island Preserve, before they head to warm water refugee sites for the winter. 

Threats and Protections

Manatees are federally protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and state protected by Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978. This makes it illegal to kill, harass, or capture manatees. 

Almost all adult manatees have scars from collisions with watercrafts, and these scar patterns are used by researchers to identify individuals. Respecting slow speed zones on powerboats can help prevent more manatees being injured by propellers.  

While paddling, it is recommended to stay two boat lengths away from manatees you encounter. If manatees approach your boat, it’s best to take your paddle out of the water until they are at a safe distance. Being a responsible paddler ensures safety for both manatees and paddlers.