November marks Manatee Awareness Month, prompting the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to remind boaters to be vigilant as manatees migrate to warmer waters across the state.
Michelle Pasawicz, FWC Manatee Management Program Coordinator, noted, "As fall temperatures drop, manatees start making their way to Florida springs, power plant discharge areas and other warm-water sites to overwinter until temperatures rise again in the spring." She added that manatees require water warmer than 68 degrees Fahrenheit for survival.
Despite their size, manatees can be difficult to spot in the water. The FWC advises boaters and watercraft operators to wear polarized glasses and adhere to all manatee protection zones by reducing speed or avoiding certain areas during colder months. These zones are clearly marked by signs on waterways, with maps available at MyFWC.com/MPZ.
Boat strikes remain a significant threat to Florida's manatees. FWC law enforcement officers patrol state waters, educating boaters about seasonal speed zones and enforcing regulations when necessary. It is crucial for those on the water to comply with these regulatory signs.
The public is urged not to disturb manatees at warm-water sites where they gather during winter months. Disturbance could drive them into cold waters outside protected areas. Harassing or harming these protected animals is illegal.
In cases of encountering injured or distressed manatees, individuals should contact the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922). Handling sick or injured manatees without professional assistance may worsen their condition and pose risks of injury.
The FWC collaborates with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on science-based conservation measures benefiting both manatees and their habitats. Additional information about these efforts can be found at MyFWC.com/Manatee.
For educational resources on safely observing manatees and guidelines for waterway users, visit MyFWC.com/Manatee. The website also provides details on supporting FWC’s conservation initiatives through purchasing a Florida manatee license plate or donating for an FWC collectible decal from local Tax Collector offices.