Orlando Airboat Tours
Manatees are one of the most endangered species in Florida, and as winter is approaching, you might encounter one around the coasts of Florida. Most manatees are found in Florida, although they may migrate as far north as the Carolinas. Wild Florida isn’t home any manatees, but it’s important to help protect these unique and gentle creatures even from our Orlando airboat tours.
Manatees are extremely gentle creatures and can be found throughout Florida with an approximate population of over 3,000. They typically weigh between 1,500 and 1,800 pounds and grow between 9 and 12 feet in length! Manatees inhabit shallow, coastal regions and can live in both salt and freshwater areas with temperatures of above 72 degrees.
For years, a manatees main threat has been humans, and had been traditionally hunted by humans. Poaching occurs today, even though hunting was banned in 1893. The biggest concern for manatees has been propeller-driven ships and boats, which cause injuries and death to manatees that may come in contact with a boat. Other threats include red tide, and the ingestion of fishing lines and hooks.
Thanks to the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Endangered Species Act and the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act, it is illegal to touch, feed or bother manatees. Feeding and touching manatees leads them to believe that they can trust humans when in fact some people are only out to hurt them. As Florida’s official state marine mammal, increasing awareness of the manatee population can help the recovery of these endangered mammals.
Wild Florida advocates for the protection of all wildlife and we hope you do too! Visit our Orlando airboat tours to see what natural Florida has to offer by calling 407-901-2563 and booking one of our Orlando airboat tours.
