Manatees in Winter
The population of manatees in Florida is thought to be between 1,000 and 3,000, yet population estimates are very difficult. The number of manatee deaths in Florida caused by humans has been increasing through the years, and now typically accounts for 20%-40% of recorded manatee deaths. There were near 300 registered and confirmed manatees in Florida killed by human activity in 2006; the majority of these, that happened to be discovered by Florida Fish and Wildlife, have been caused by boat strikes. (Wikipedia)
Each winter, hordes of manatees congregate in the warm waters of the Florida Everglades. National Geographic researchers are working to see if the species is recovering. View the Video here.
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There are only a few ocean dwelling creatures that bring out the “aah, ain’t he cute,” feelings in me. Manatees are definitely high on that short list. Hopefully their numbers can be brought back and the deaths caused by human carelessness will be stopped. They are truly gentle beings that deserve to swim free and thrive.