Manatee Migration

Manatees are coming back to coastal waters! Manatees are warm-blooded mammals that require water temperatures above 68°F (20°C) to stay healthy. Unlike whales or dolphins, they have a low metabolic rate and lack a thick layer of blubber, making them vulnerable to cold stress. When temperatures drop in the winter, the manatee migration begins to find warm-water refuges to avoid serious health issues, such as hypothermia or even death.

Where Do Manatees Go in the Winter?

During the colder months, manatees migrate from coastal waters to warmer, inland locations, such as:

• Natural Springs – Many Florida manatees move into freshwater springs like Blue Spring State Park, where the water remains at a constant 72°F (22°C) year-round.
• Power Plant Outflows – In areas without natural springs, manatees gather near power plants, such as the Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center, where warm water is discharged from the plants into nearby waterways.
• Estuaries and Rivers – Some manatees migrate to brackish waters in rivers and estuaries where temperatures remain more stable than in the open ocean.

The Spring Return to Coastal Waters

As spring arrives and ocean temperatures rise, manatees leave their winter havens and return to coastal bays, estuaries, and shallow waters. This migration allows them to:

• Feed on Seagrass Beds – Manatees are herbivores that rely on lush seagrass meadows and freshwater vegetation, which thrive in warmer months.
• Explore a Larger Range – With no need for warm water refuges, they roam freely along the Florida coastline.
• Breed and Raise Young – Warmer months are crucial for mating, and pregnant females often give birth in these coastal waters, where food is abundant.

Conservation Efforts for Migrating Manatees

Human activities can pose threats to manatees during their seasonal migrations. Conservation efforts focus on:

• Protecting Seagrass Beds – Ensuring manatees have access to their primary food source.
• Reducing Boat Strikes – Implementing slow-speed zones and educating boaters on manatee safety.
• Preserving Warm-Water Habitats – Safeguarding natural springs and improving alternative warm-water refuges.

How You Can Help

If you’re in areas where manatees migrate, you can support their survival by:

✅ Observing from a distance – Give manatees space, whether on a boat or near a spring.
✅ Following boating speed limits – Slower speeds reduce the risk of injury to manatees.
✅ Avoiding seagrass damage – Seagrass meadows are vital to their diet, so be mindful when anchoring.
✅ Reporting distressed manatees – If you see an injured or stranded manatee, contact local wildlife authorities.

Manatees’ seasonal migrations are a natural wonder, showcasing their resilience and adaptability. By understanding their movements and protecting their habitats, we can help ensure that these gentle giants continue to thrive in our coastal waters for generations to come.

Come see manatees and welcome back our gentle giants on a Desoto Kayak Tour.