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FWC Reminds Us, it is now Manatee Mating Season, So Keep Your Distance
Spring into Summer, means more people getting out on our Florida waterways... It also means it is manatee mating season,
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission is reminding residents and visitors especially anyone on the water... from those swimming, to kayakers, paddleboarders and boaters…. to keep an eye out for these gentle giants in the water.
FWC says that If you encounter a manatee or a herd, it’s important to watch from a distance as these large animals are focused on mating.
Bystanders that get too close could be injured.
In most cases the manatees are not stranded, injured or distressed, what you see is usually part of the mating process…and the public should not try to approach or assist the animals in any way.
If you are concerned about a mating herd or observe an injured or dead manatee, please call FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline: 888-404-3922.
FWC has more info on Manatees here: https://myfwc.com/education/wildlife/manatee/facts-and-information/
Watch a Manatee Herd below, from the FQC....