Florida manatees find food and shelter at Myakka

Also known as "sea cows," Florida manatees are federally designated threatened due to boat collisions and habitat loss. 

As they feed and rest in shallow waters where they're quite difficult to spot, they're highly vulnerable to boat collisions. With development and pollution destroying seagrass beds and freshwater aquatic vegetation, they've also been losing their main food source in many areas.

These large marine mammals consume approximately 10% of their 1,200-pound-plus body weight in aquatic vegetation a day, therefore preventing overgrowth that could obstruct our Florida waterways. And they provide ample fertilizer to enable water vegetation to thrive! Due to these key roles, manatees are considered a keystone species — without them, aquatic ecosystems would be dramatically different or cease to exist. 

Unhealthy or abnormal manatee behavior tells us that something is wrong in the environment, making these gentle giants an important indicator species. Their imperiled status is therefore greatly concerning.

The Wild and Scenic Myakka River meanders through Myakka River State Park all the way to Charlotte Bay to the south, where it flows into the Gulf of Mexico. As manatees thrive in both fresh or saltwater, during periods of high water levels, the river offers a gateway to Myakka for aquatic wildlife seeking safe refuge and food. Indeed, to the surprise and delight of park visitors, manatees are regularly observed in the Park.

But visits to Myakka are not without peril for manatees. In the past, during periods of low water levels, the historic weir (which was removed in 2022 to restore the natural flow of the river) and Downs’ dam (a private dam near the park’s south boundary), have unfortunately proven to be obstacles to manatees traversing the river. This is especially an issue when high waters naturally recede after manatees have made their way up into the park. And encountering boats illegally speeding on the river can injure or even kill manatees.

To protect manatees, please give them plenty of space, and never disturb them. And when boating anywhere in Florida, be sure to note and comply with posted speed limits.

Friends of Myakka River exists to support Myakka River State Park and the Wild and Scenic Myakka River. Together, we're protecting and sharing Myakka's Magic, to the benefit of future generations, and our own. Follow us @FriendsofMyakkaRiver