Fauna
Mammal

Florida Manatee

Trichechus manatus latirostris

Also known as Florida Sea Cow, North American Manatee

Florida manatees are gentle, slow-moving aquatic mammals that graze on submerged vegetation in coastal bays, rivers, and warm spring sanctuaries. During winter, hundreds gather near natural springs and warm-water discharge canals to survive cold spells. Mother manatees nurse their calves for up to two years, maintaining close vocal bonds through high-pitched squeaks and chirps.

AquaticHerbivoreMammal
Florida Manatee reference1 / 7
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VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preySeagrass, Eelgrass, Water Hyacinth
Predators
  • Tiger Shark
  • Bull Shark
ThreatsWatercraft strikes, loss of warm-water habitat, toxic algae blooms
HabitatsCoastal waters, estuaries, rivers, warm spring runs
Life span50–60 years
Classification
  1. FamilyTrichechidae
  2. SpeciesTrichechus manatus latirostris
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Large size poses a risk if startled; maintain a safe distance and never crowd or pursue.
Why it is dangerous
Large physical size can cause accidental injury if an animal thrashes when crowded or cornered.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Gray, barrel-shaped body with a flat paddle-tail, short whiskers, and surface breathing nostrils.
What to do
Keep a distance of at least 15 meters and never cross between a mother and her calf.
What to notice
Distinguished by slow swimming near the surface, rounded tail paddle, and floating snout tips.
Support conservation
Observe quietly from docks, kayaks, or land without chasing, feeding, or disrupting natural movements.
Responsible observation
  • Give Space: Keep at least 15 meters away to prevent disturbing feeding or resting behavior.
  • Look, Don't Touch: Avoid touching or riding manatees, which is strictly prohibited by federal law.
  • Paddle Quietly: Approach slow-speed zones cautiously in kayaks to observe without startling them.
Related species
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