A Guide to Florida’s Gentle Giants
Have you ever wanted to see a gentle giant up close? Florida manatees, also known as sea cows, are amazing creatures that visit the state's warm springs during the winter months. They are a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, and over 6,000 of them call Florida home in the winter. You might even spot them as far north as Massachusetts or as far west as Texas during their yearly migrations.
Want to see them for yourself? Crystal River, a small town north of Pinellas County, has the largest concentration of Florida manatees anywhere in the world! It's a safe place for manatees to stay warm during the winter, from November through March. Hurry, there are only a few weeks left to visit them before they head back out to sea!
Visiting Crystal River
Crystal River, a protected National Wildlife Refuge, safeguards endangered manatees. Yet, it still offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe these gentle giants up close. Kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, or even snorkeling allows you to witness these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Remember, respecting their space is crucial. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reminds everyone to never touch manatees and keep boats at least 50 feet away. Witnessing thousands of manatees gather in Crystal River is an experience unique to Florida, and it's an unforgettable sight for nature enthusiasts.
Why is cold water a threat to manatees?
Manatees have no natural predators. However, one major challenge they face is staying warm. Unlike other marine mammals with thick layers of blubber for insulation, manatees lack this vital adaptation. Their body mostly contains muscle with little body fat. Their lean bodies rely on warm water to maintain proper body temperature, making them vulnerable to the dangers of cold. Luckily, Florida's natural warm-water springs, averaging around 72°F year-round, become a perfect winter haven for these magnificent creatures. These springs act as a vital refuge, allowing manatees to thrive even during the colder months.
Why have I been seeing manatees in the news lately?
In 2021, there was a long-lasting red tide bloom in Tampa Bay, leaving a negative impact on the local manatee population. These gentle giants are vulnerable to the toxins produced by the bloom, which they can inhale, absorb through their skin, or ingest while feeding on their primary food source, seagrass. A detrimental side effect of red tide is starvation, as the toxins block sunlight from these important grasses and destroy vital seagrass beds. With their food source disappearing, many manatees face a desperate struggle for survival. For more information on red tide and manatee populations, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
How can I help protect manatees?
Be mindful of your impact. Make sure to properly dispose of your fishing line and pick up your litter. Boat strikes are a major threat to manatees. Always watch for them in waterways and obey all posted speed limits. Sadly, around 100 manatees die each year from boat collisions. Additionally, do not give manatees fresh water from a hose as it encourages them to congregate in marinas, increasing the chance of them being hit by a boat. The easiest way to protect manatees is to spread the word! Educate other people about what you know and how they can also protect these magnificent creatures. If you see any sick or injured manatees, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at: 1-888-404-FWCC.