As the chill of winter descends upon Florida, manatees in and around Brevard County face a critical challenge. In these colder months, particularly as 2023 gives way to 2024 with predicted lows in the low 40s, these gentle giants seek refuge in warmer waters to survive.
Manatees, often called sea cows, are particularly susceptible to cold stress due to their low metabolic rate and lack of insulating fat. In response to the dropping temperatures, they migrate to warmer habitats, often congregating in natural springs or near power plant outflows where the water remains a constant, warmer temperature.
This winter, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has been particularly vigilant. “With conditions improving in the Mosquito Lagoon, we are closely monitoring the manatee food sources,” said an FWC spokesperson, referring to the critical habitat in Brevard County where many manatees gather. The FWC’s effort includes the implementation of a manatee feeding program designed to supplement their natural diet, a necessary intervention given the shortage of their natural food source, seagrass.
However, as of early December 2023, the FWC reported that seagrass monitoring in Mosquito Lagoon indicates adequate foraging resources, suggesting a positive turn for the manatee population. Despite this, the cold weather remains a threat.
As we approach the end of 2023 and the start of 2024, the FWC continues to emphasize the importance of public awareness and responsible boating to protect these vulnerable creatures, especially during their winter migration. The manatees’ plight in Brevard County is a poignant reminder of the delicate balance in Florida’s ecosystems and the ongoing need for conservation efforts.
