Florida Manatees: Gentle Giants of the Water

What is the typical size and weight of a Florida manatee?

• 9-10 feet long and about 1,000 pounds

• Over 13 feet long and more than 3,500 pounds

• 5-6 feet long and about 500 pounds

What is the primary diet of Florida manatees?

• Seagrasses and other aquatic plants

• Small fish and crustaceans

• Plankton and algae

How do manatees communicate with each other?

• Through sounds like chirps, whistles, or squeaks

• By changing colors

• Through body language

What adaptations help manatees survive in their aquatic environment?

• Nostrils that close tightly underwater and small eyes with protective membranes

• Sharp teeth for hunting

• Brightly colored skin for camouflage

What are some threats faced by Florida manatees?

• Collisions with boats and habitat loss

• Predation by sharks

• Competition with dolphins for food