NOVEMBER IS MANATEE AWARENESS MONTH!
Florida’s gentle giant, the Manatee, roams around the Southeast of Florida all year round, but in the months from November to April you will be able to see a lot more of these mellow sea creatures when things get a bit chilly.
Manatees head to places like freshwater springs, warm waters, or places where the water temperature remains at a constant in South Florida. In spite of their size, the endangered gentle giant has very little body fat and needs warm water to survive. As the cooling waters of Florida have started to subtly change into winter weather, the manatee travels inland and offers kayakers or small vessels with an an amazing opportunity to see these gentle creatures. “Seeing a large number of manatees in one place is an amazing experience, but just remember these gentle sea cows are there for survival. Whether you're on a solo kayaking trip or a manatee swim tour, always mind your "Manatee Manners" -- look, but don't touch.”
Speed zones are a major importance during Manatee Awareness Month, the change from idle speed and slow speeds are to protect our manatee zones. Become familiar with rules of the Florida waterways during manatee seasons. Also, try spotting manatees while you’re out on the water by wearing polarized sunglasses at all times, to keep from bumping into them. Keep vessels distant from manatee sanctuaries and find a safe area to anchor while being considerate to manatees and other boats.
“The goal is to protect, ample healthy habitat that we concentrate our efforts on and support a stable and growing manatee population.”
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