As cooler weather begins to move into Florida this weekend, we’re once again reminded that the time when the Florida manatee (also known as the West Indian manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris) seeks warm-water refuge is upon us. These gentle giants, often called “sea cows,” are a beloved part of Florida’s natural heritage—but they are also extremely vulnerable to cold. Unlike many marine mammals, manatees have relatively little body fat and a low metabolic rate, making it difficult for them to maintain their body temperature in cool water. When water temperatures drop below 68°F (about 20°C), manatees can develop cold-stress syndrome, a life-threatening condition that causes lesions on their skin, disrupts circulation, weakens their immune systems, and can lead to organ failure or death if exposure continues.

During cold fronts, manatees instinctively migrate to warm-water refuges—natural springs that stay a constant 72°F year-round, or warm-water discharges from power plants and industrial canals. These areas become sanctuaries during the winter months, supporting hundreds of manatees at a time. Here along Florida’s Nature Coast, however, there are no power plants providing artificial refuge. Instead, manatees rely entirely on natural spring systems like the Weeki Wachee River and Chassahowitzka River, which flow from deep aquifers and maintain stable temperatures even during winter cold snaps. These spring-fed rivers provide necessary refuge, offering both warmth and access to freshwater vegetation for foraging.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) designates November 15 through March 31 as manatee season—a time when boaters must slow down in posted zones and take extra care to avoid collisions with these slow-moving mammals. With an estimated 8,350 manatees remaining in Florida’s waters, every individual counts. Their survival depends not only on access to warm-water habitats but also on the preservation of seagrass beds and the protection of clean spring systems. As temperatures dip this weekend, let’s do our part. Slow down, give manatees space, and help them make it safely through another Florida winter.

What You Can Do This Winter
Here are a few simple actions you can take to help manatees:
Slow down in boat zones and observe posted speed limits. Manatees often surface unexpectedly.
Give space: If you see a manatee, keep your distance, stop paddling or motoring, and let it resume its course.
Avoid disturbance in spring runs or refuge zones—they’re resting and feeding.
Support habitat protection: These animals depend on warm springs and clean seagrass beds to survive the cold season.
Report distress: If you observe a manatee behaving abnormally (e.g., repeatedly surfacing, appearing lethargic or injured), note the location and call the reporting hotline (for FL: 888-404-3922 or *FWC on cell).

Let’s embrace this manatee season with respect, education, and stewardship.
To learn more, visit: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.