Manatees, often referred to as “sea cows,” are large, gentle marine mammals that inhabit coastal waters. These herbivorous creatures typically reach lengths of about ten feet and can weigh around 1,000 pounds. Manatees are known for their slow-moving and peaceful nature, often grazing on submerged vegetation.
Are Manatees Found in Destin?
Manatees are not commonly found as regular residents in Destin, Florida, though transient individuals are occasionally sighted. While sightings occur, they are rare. The waters in the Destin area can be too cool for manatees during colder months, and the immediate vicinity lacks extensive seagrass beds, which serve as a primary food source.
The spring and summer months, particularly March, April, and May, might offer a higher chance of encountering a manatee in the broader Fort Walton Beach and Destin areas. These sightings usually involve individuals passing through rather than establishing a long-term presence. The Gulfarium in Fort Walton Beach, near Destin, also provides care for rescued manatees, contributing to conservation efforts in the Florida Panhandle.
Understanding Manatee Habitat Needs
Manatees require specific environmental conditions to thrive, which influences their distribution. They cannot tolerate prolonged exposure to water temperatures below 68°F (20°C or 21°C), as colder water can lead to a serious condition known as cold stress syndrome, which may be fatal. This temperature sensitivity largely dictates their range, especially during the winter months.
These marine mammals are primarily herbivores, consuming a significant amount of aquatic vegetation, including various types of seagrass. An adult manatee can eat between 10% and 15% of its body weight in plants daily, necessitating access to abundant foraging grounds. They also require access to freshwater sources for drinking. Manatees generally prefer sheltered, shallow waters, typically less than 20 feet deep, with minimal currents, such as bays, estuaries, and canals, which offer both food and protection.
Manatee Migration and Seasonal Presence
Manatees exhibit seasonal migration patterns, largely driven by water temperature fluctuations. During the cooler winter months, from November to March, they seek refuge in consistently warm waters, congregating in natural springs or near power plant discharge areas, primarily in central and south Florida. These warm-water sites are important for their survival during cold periods.
As water temperatures rise in spring and summer, manatees disperse from these winter refuges, venturing into broader coastal areas and rivers. Their summer range can extend significantly, with some individuals traveling along the Gulf Coast as far west as Texas. While manatees do migrate to the northern Gulf Coast during spring and summer, with peak sightings from June through August, Destin is not a consistent stop or wintering ground due to its less favorable temperature and habitat characteristics compared to other regions.
Observing Manatees Responsibly
Manatees are protected by federal and state laws. These protections make it illegal to harass, feed, or otherwise disturb these animals. Observing manatees should always be done from a respectful distance, at least 50 feet away, to avoid altering their natural behavior.
Boaters play an important role in manatee protection by adhering to slow-speed zones in designated areas and remaining vigilant for manatees in the water. Using polarized sunglasses can help in spotting them beneath the surface. If a sick, injured, orphaned, or dead manatee is sighted, it should be reported immediately to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) 24-hour Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-3922.