Manatees, often called “sea cows,” are large, aquatic mammals inhabiting coastal waters and rivers. Despite their imposing size, these gentle creatures are not aggressive. They are known for their docile and curious nature, and there is no record of a manatee ever attacking a human.
Understanding Manatee Temperament
Manatees possess inherent characteristics that contribute to their peaceful disposition. As primary herbivores, they consume large quantities of seagrass and other aquatic vegetation, meaning they do not hunt or exhibit predatory behaviors. Their slow-moving lifestyle, typically 3 to 5 miles per hour, further reduces aggressive encounters. Adult manatees, growing 9 to 12 feet long and weighing up to 1,300 pounds, have few natural predators due to their size. This lack of significant threats means they have not developed strong defensive or aggressive behaviors; instead, their social interactions are generally semi-social and cooperative, even during mating.
Misinterpreting Manatee Actions
Human encounters can lead to misunderstandings about manatee intentions. Manatees are naturally curious and may approach boats or swimmers, which can be misconstrued as a “charge” or aggressive bump. Their large size, while intimidating, does not reflect hostile intent; accidental collisions may occur due to their limited vision, especially in murky water, or reliance on touch and hearing. Manatees may also congregate in areas like warm water sources or freshwater outflows, creating an impression of crowding. What appears to be a playful nudge or investigation with their sensitive whiskers is simply their way of exploring or interacting, not a sign of aggression.
Guidelines for Safe Encounters
Responsible behavior is essential for both human safety and manatee well-being. Maintaining a respectful distance is crucial; wildlife experts recommend staying at least 50 feet away. Approaching too closely can disturb these animals and is considered harassment. Avoid touching or feeding manatees, as this can alter their natural behavior, making them less wary of boats and more susceptible to propeller injuries or leading to dependence on human handouts. Instead, observe them passively and quietly, allowing them to initiate interaction, and if they do, remain still and let them pass.
Protecting Manatees and Their Habitat
Manatees are protected under federal and state laws due to their conservation status, listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 and by the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) of 1972. These laws make it illegal to feed, harass, harm, pursue, hunt, or kill manatees; any act disrupting their normal behavior is a violation. Violations of federal laws can result in penalties up to $100,000 and/or imprisonment for one year. State laws, such as Florida’s Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978, also provide protections, with fines up to $500 and/or imprisonment of up to 60 days for state infractions. Primary threats to manatees include boat strikes and habitat loss, underscoring the importance of human caution and responsible behavior in their aquatic environments.