Library:Webinar: Manatee 101 (video)
Summary
Save the Manatee Club:
- Founded by Jimmy Buffett and Bob Graham to protect manatees and their habitat.
- Activities include public awareness, advocacy, fundraising, and research grants.
What is a Manatee?
- Aquatic mammals, not related to cows despite the nickname.
- Herbivores, only eat plants.
- Large, averaging 10 feet long and 800-1200 pounds.
- Belong to the order Sirenia, with different species globally.
Similarities with Elephants:
- Closest living land mammal to manatees.
- Similarities include large gray bodies, small eyes, prehensile snout, and toenails.
Habitat:
- Found in shallow, slow-moving waters with abundant vegetation.
- Able to tolerate varying salinity levels.
- Require warm water (above 68°F), seek refuges in winter.
Diet:
- Herbivores, consume aquatic vegetation found in their habitat.
- Known to travel long distances based on seasonal changes and food availability.
Behavior:
- Some manatees are nomadic, traveling long distances.
- Others prefer staying in specific areas with ample resources.