Manatees are mammals of the genus Sirenia. Although they were once plentiful in the waters of the southern United States, they are now an endangered species. Through conservation efforts, the state of Florida as well as ecological groups worldwide, have been working to prevent the manatee’s extinction. Diving with these gentle giants, who can grow to 13 feet in length and who have a whimsical, peaceful nature, is fun and relaxing, and many of Florida’s top charters offer a variety of manatee-centered dives and snorkeling adventures.
Where to Find Manatees
Manatees once thrived throughout the rivers and coastal waters of the south, however, they were hunted for their meat and, since they cannot tolerate cold temperatures, they often died from exposure before making it back to the safety of warmer waters.
Today, it is possible to find these herbivorous nomads in warm waters ranging from as far north as Virginia, to the Gulf of Mexico. They can travel from fresh water to salt water and back with ease, and they enjoy shallow bays and lagoons, estuaries, and rivers. They like the warm water that is discharged by power plants, and they love Florida’s natural warm springs.
What You Should Know About Manatees, Before You Dive
While manatees are active, they surface for air every 4-6 minutes. When at rest, they may surface only every twenty minutes or so. Never get in the way of a manatee – these guys weigh about 3,500 lbs and can collide with you. Keep your distance.
There is no reason to worry about being bitten by a manatee. They eat sea grass and river bottom grasses. In fact, manatees have no front incisors. Their only teeth are a set of “cheek teeth” which are not separated like our molars are. These teeth are shed and replaced throughout the manatee’s life.
As the manatees are protected by federal law, and since harassment can cause them unhealthy stress, it is important that you do not touch, attempt to feed, or try ride the manatees that you encounter. Doing so could land you in jail, and you could face a stiff financial penalty as well. The maximum fine for harassing a manatee is $100,000.00.
The Best Time to Dive With Manatees
During the hottest months of the year, manatees stick to coastal waters and avoid the warm water in the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, where they normally congregate in large numbers during October to March, and sometimes, depending on the weather, into April and even May.
As diving and snorkeling with Florida’s manatees is so popular with people who visit the state’s variety of attractions, it is a good idea to research your charter and set up reservations well in advance of your visit.