09/04/2026
DO YOU KNOW HOW TO SPOT A SKINNY MANATEE??
When surrounding waters are too cold we often see manatees loosing weight.
It is important to ALWAYS report an injured or distressed manatee to FWC.
Be prepared to provide information for the following questions:
-Is the manatee alive or dead?
-When did you see the manatee?
-What is the exact location of the manatee?
-How long have you observed the manatee?
-What is the approximate size of the manatee?
-What is the location of the public boat ramp closest to the manatee?
-Does the manatee have a “tag” attached near its tail?
-Can you provide a contact number where you can be reached for further information?
***After contacting the FWC, a manatee biologist will call you back. In the meantime, please take pictures and/or a video of the manatee to send to the biologist. Specifically the tail and scars.
https://myfwc.com
Physical & Behavioral Signs of Skinny/Emaciated Manatee:
⚠️ Physical Appearance The "Peanut Head" Shape: This is the most telling visual sign of severe malnutrition. A healthy manatee has a smooth, seamless transition from its head to its body. An underweight manatee develops a noticeable indentation or sunken area right behind the back of its head, making the head look distinct from the body like a peanut.
-Deep Visible Body Folds: While healthy manatees have natural wrinkles, a severely emaciated manatee will exhibit deep, exaggerated skin folds or belly rolls along its sides due to the drastic loss of volume beneath the skin.
🛑 Associated Symptoms (Cold-Stress Syndrome)
-In many cases, an exceptionally skinny manatee is suffering from Cold-Stress Syndrome, a life-threatening condition similar to frostbite or hypothermia that occurs when they remain in water colder than 69°F (21°C) for too long.
-Look for White Lesions or Sores: Distinct white, patchy spots, sores, or sloughing skin, primarily visible on the snout, flippers, and tail.
-Rapid Respiration: A healthy, resting manatee only needs to surface for air every 2 to 5 minutes (and can stay under for up to 20 minutes). A distressed or sick manatee may surface rapidly every 30 seconds to one minute.
-Severe Lethargy: Floating horizontally or resting continuously in shallow, warm-water zones without moving much or showing interest in grazing.
We always practice passive observation and respect the manatees in their home, ensuring that we never interrupt their natural behavior.
If we do not take steps to protect the Earth and the creatures, who will?
