Manatees

The changes in protection zones would ensure speed zones are consistent with the changes seen in a manatee distribution survey, especially extending some zones west toward the Gulf of Mexico.

A polar vortex that has hit much of the U.S. with ice and snow has dealt a glancing blow to Florida and its manatee population. The manatees have been forced to seek warmer waters as coastal temperatures have dropped.

Manatees and sea turtles are vulnerable to cold snaps like the Arctic blasts this month as cold air can drop the temperature of shallow water along Southwest Florida’s by 2 degrees every day.

The proposed rule would keep the Florida manatee as a threatened species, continuing its status since being delisted as endangered in 2017. A public hearing is set for Feb. 26.

All 19 manatees rescued after storm-related flooding receded were discovered thanks to reports made to FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline.

Like most Florida residents these days, manatees may not be native to the Sunshine State. A recent study shows the sea cows' arrival may have been fueled by global warming.

A federal judge sided with arguments by an environmental group that wastewater discharges into the Indian River Lagoon led to the demise of seagrass and, as a result, the deaths of manatees. But he also said a trial is needed to determine whether the Florida Department of Environmental Protection violated the Endangered Species Act.

Florida’s dams and locks prove disruptive — and sometimes deadly — to wildlife.

The downtick is expected: the peak of perinatal mortality normally coincides with calving season in late spring/summer, per the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium in Sarasota reopens Nov. 22 after hurricanes Helene and Milton brought flooding, roof damage, and the death of two otters. Mote is also welcoming its newest manatee resident.

Starting Nov. 1, visitors can check out the manatees as they seek refuge in TECO's warm waters in Apollo Beach.

As Hurricane Milton approaches, Crystal River wildlife researchers and advocates are concerned about how a second hurricane in less than two weeks will further affect manatee habitat.