As the calendar turns to Manatee Appreciation Day, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is issuing a seasonal alert for everyone hitting the water: the manatees are moving.
With temperatures climbing, these massive, slow-moving mammals are officially leaving their winter hangouts—like warm springs and power plant discharges—to explore the state’s rivers, canals, and coastal bays.
This natural dispersal significantly increases the chances of a boat-to-manatee encounter. To keep these protected animals safe, the FWC is urging boaters and personal watercraft users to “go slow and look out below.”
Starting April 1 and running through November 15, seasonal manatee protection zones go into effect, requiring operators to drop their speed in specific areas to prevent collisions, which remain a leading threat to the species.
READ: From Mermaid Myths To Modern Survival: The Battle To Save Florida’s Sea Cows
Spotting a manatee isn’t always easy since they spend most of their time just beneath the surface. Experts suggest wearing polarized sunglasses to cut through the glare off the water.
Look for tell-tale “footprints”—large, circular ripples on the surface caused by a manatee swimming underneath—or the occasional snout breaking the water for air.
If you do spot one, the rule is simple: keep your distance. It is illegal to feed, harass, or harm these animals.
The FWC also warns against trying to intervene personally if you see a manatee that appears sick or stranded. Handling a distressed animal can cause more harm and put the person involved at risk of injury. Instead, the public is asked to report injured, orphaned, or dead manatees to the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
FWC law enforcement will be patrolling state waters to ensure boaters are following the posted speed signs. Maps of these protection zones are available at MyFWC.com/Manatee, along with official viewing guidelines for those who want to see these iconic Florida residents without putting them in danger.
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