As November arrives, Florida kicks off Manatee Awareness Month. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds boaters to be vigilant for manatees as they embark on their seasonal migration to warmer water havens across the state.
“As fall temperatures drop, manatees start making their way to Florida springs, power plant discharge areas and other warm-water sites to overwinter until temperatures rise again in the spring,” said Michelle Pasawicz, FWC Manatee Management Program Coordinator. “Manatees need access to water warmer than 68 degrees Fahrenheit to survive.”
Despite their size, manatees can be easily missed underwater. Boaters and personal watercraft operators can increase their chances of spotting manatees by:
- Wearing polarized sunglasses to cut through glare
- Maintaining a slow and steady cruising speed
- Strictly adhering to designated manatee protection zones
During colder months, these zones require boaters and personal watercraft users to reduce speeds or avoid specific areas altogether. This helps prevent collisions that could injure or kill manatees. Manatee protection zones are clearly marked by waterway signs. You can also find detailed maps online at MyFWC.com/MPZ.
Boat strikes remain a major threat to Florida’sFlorida’s manatee population. FWC law enforcement officers actively patrol state waters, educating boaters about seasonal manatee speed zones and enforcing regulations when necessary. Boaters and personal watercraft users are encouraged to follow all posted signage while navigating waterways.
Respectful Observation: Key to Manatee Wellbeing
While observing manatee congregations at warm-water sites, it’s crucial to give them ample space. Disturbing them can force them out of protected areas and expose them to potentially dangerous cold water. Remember, manatees are a protected species, and any form of harassment, feeding, disturbance, or harm is strictly prohibited.
Encountering a Manatee in Distress? Here’s How to Help
If you spot an injured, sick, distressed, or deceased manatee, contact the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline immediately at 888-404-FWCC (3922). Trained responders will be dispatched to assist the animal. Never attempt to handle a sick or injured manatee yourself – such actions can further harm the animal and put you at risk.
Manatee Conservation: A Collaborative Effort
The FWC and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are dedicated to manatee conservation. Through science-based initiatives, they are actively working to improve the lives of these gentle giants and their habitat. Learn more about these conservation efforts by visiting MyFWC.com/Manatee.
Become a Manatee Guardian
This FWC manatee website also offers Viewing Guidelines, providing valuable tips on respectful manatee observation, additional guidance for boaters and personal watercraft operators, and information on contributing to manatee conservation.
Looking to actively support the FWC’s manatee research, rescue, and management efforts? Consider purchasing a Florida manatee license plate or donating $5 to receive a collectible FWC manatee decal. Both options are available through your local Tax Collector’sCollector’s office.
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