Manatees, often called “sea cows,” are large, herbivorous aquatic mammals. While commonly associated with Florida’s warm waters, their presence in Texas’s aquatic environments is a frequent question. This article explores whether these intriguing animals venture into the Lone Star State’s waterways.
Manatee Sightings in Texas
Manatees are increasingly observed as transient visitors along the Texas Gulf Coast. Although sightings remain relatively uncommon, their frequency has become more consistent in recent years, indicating a possible range expansion. These sightings have been recorded across the Texas coastline, from the upper coast to the southern tip.
Manatees have been sighted in specific locations such as the Laguna Madre, Galveston Bay, coastal rivers, Corpus Christi, Port Mansfield, Cow Bayou near Sabine Lake, Copano Bay, San Jose Island, the Bolivar Peninsula, and the mouth of the Rio Grande. These observations are often made by coastal residents, boaters, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Why Manatees Visit Texas
Manatees are warm-water mammals highly susceptible to cold temperatures due to their low metabolic rate and limited insulating fat. They cannot tolerate prolonged exposure to water temperatures below approximately 68°F (20°C). When water temperatures drop, manatees seek out warmer refuges for survival, a behavior that drives much of their migratory patterns.
During the warmer months, typically from late spring through early fall, the Texas Gulf Coast can provide suitable conditions. The region offers warm waters and abundant seagrass beds, which are their primary food source. These visits are often part of a natural range expansion from established populations, as manatees explore new foraging grounds.
Protecting Manatees in Texas
Manatees are protected under federal laws, including the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973. These legal protections make it unlawful to harass, hunt, capture, or harm manatees in any way. Observing manatees from a respectful distance is important to avoid disturbing their natural behavior.
If you encounter a manatee, avoid feeding them or offering fresh water from hoses, as this can alter their natural behaviors and make them more vulnerable to human-related dangers like boat strikes. If a manatee appears injured, distressed, or stranded, it should be reported immediately. The Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network operates a hotline at 1-800-9MAMMAL (1-800-962-6625) for reporting such incidents.
Responsible boating practices, such as adhering to speed limits in designated areas, are important to prevent accidental collisions with manatees. These measures help ensure the safety of both manatees and boaters.