As winter approaches, manatees in Florida are beginning their seasonal migration to warmer waters.

“As fall temperatures drop, manatees start making their way to Florida springs, power plant discharge areas, and other warm-water sites to overwinter until temperatures rise again in the spring,” explains Michelle Pasawicz, Coordinator of the Manatee Management Program for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). “Manatees need access to water warmer than 68 degrees Fahrenheit to survive.”

Despite their large size, manatees are vulnerable to boat strikes, which can cause injury or even death. The FWC urges boaters to remain vigilant, slow down, and use polarized glasses to spot manatees. Adhering to manatee protection zones is crucial for their safety. Maps of these zones are available at FWC Manatee Data and Maps.

Boaters are also asked to maintain a safe distance, as disturbing manatees can cause them to leave protected areas and enter colder waters, which can be fatal.

If you encounter an injured, sick, dead, or distressed manatee, report it to the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922. Do not attempt to handle these animals yourself.

For more information on conservation efforts, visit MyFWC.

(Image credit: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission)