Officials working to stop endangered Florida manatees starving to death are encouraged by the fact that some of their favorite foods are growing naturally in a key region.
Officials said that seagrasses were found in small areas of Indian River Lagoon on Florida’s east coast, where pollution has caused much of it to die.
Ron Mezich, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, stated that seagrass growth is a positive. We don’t know what that means for the long-term.
Manatees have been suffering from a lack of seagrass forage in winter months, leading to an unprecedented decline. Last year’s record was more than 1,100. According to statistics from the commission, 551 deaths have been recorded in 2022.
The FWC, U.S. The Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Officials claim that a similar program is being planned for the winter.
Mezich stated that “We don’t rule out other locations.”
Officials from FWC stated Wednesday that 92 manatees were being treated in rehabilitation centers across the country by FWC staff. Most of these were in Florida, including the critical care facilities at SeaWorld Orlando and the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.
Jon Wallace, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service stated that the new growth of seagrass is good, but the plants can easily be destroyed by the sun-choking summer algal bloom. He said that it will take many years to fully restore seagrass and improve water quality.
Wallace stated, “It’s just going to take a long time.”
Donations can be made to an FWC-affiliated charity by anyone interested in helping the manatee program. You can report distressed manatees by calling 888-404FWCC (888-4922)
According to the state wildlife commissioner, there are currently only 7,520 wild animals.
Manatees are gentle, round-tailed giants with a long tail. They can weigh up to 1,200 pounds (550 kg) and can live up to 65 years. Florida’s state marine mammal, manatees, is also Florida’s.
