FLORIDA MANATEES
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FLInfoGuide.com
Manatees, commonly known as “sea cows,” are gentle, gray marine mammals.
Adult manatees typically measure 9 to 10 feet in length and weigh about 1,000
pounds, though some can grow even larger. Their distinct features include a
rounded, flattened tail used for swimming and stiff whiskers around their face
and lips. Manatees have unique eye muscles that close in a circular motion,
and a protective membrane that covers their eyes when underwater. They have
two forelimbs, each with 3 or 4 nails, which help them move slowly and grasp
vegetation while feeding. Their flexible upper lip is perfect for pulling food into
their mouths, allowing them to consume up to 10 percent of their body weight
in aquatic plants each day!
Despite their bulky appearance, manatees are surprisingly agile. They can swim
upside down, roll, perform somersaults, and even move vertically through
the water. Unlike most
mammals, which have seven
cervical
vertebrae,
manatees have only
six. This means
they can’t turn
their
heads
s i d e w a y s ;
instead, they
must
rotate
their
entire
body
to
look
behind them. Like
all mammals, manatees
breathe air and usually surface
every five minutes, though they can hold their
breath for up to 20 minutes while resting. Often, only their nostrils break the
surface of the water.
Manatees are protected under federal law by the Marine Mammal Protection
Act of 1972 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973.
Manatee Viewing Center – From November 1 to April 15, you can witness
manatees in their natural habitat at Tampa Electric’s Big Bend Power Station.
The warm-water discharge canal in Apollo Beach attracts manatees, especially
when Tampa Bay’s water temperature falls below 68°F.
A trip to the Manatee Viewing Center is well worth it! Inside the environmental
education building, you’ll find vibrant displays, and outside, there’s a butterfly
garden. A boardwalk leads to a 50-foot-high observation tower that provides
stunning views of the estuary and, on clear days, much of Tampa Bay. The
Center is located at 6990 Dickman Rd., Apollo Beach, FL 33572, and is open
daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.
Admission and parking are free. For more information, call (813) 228-4289 or
visit tampaelectric.com/manatee.