Central Florida is experiencing an unusually cold stretch this week, with temperatures dipping well below seasonal averages. While residents bundle up and brace for the chilly weather, Florida’s manatees are also feeling the impact and are migrating to warmer waters to survive the drop in temperatures.

Manatees, known as Florida’s gentle giants, are highly sensitive to cold weather. When water temperatures fall below 68°F, these marine mammals risk cold stress syndrome, a condition that can be fatal if they remain in chilly waters for extended periods. To cope with the cold, manatees in Central Florida are seeking refuge in natural warm springs and discharge areas from power plants, where water temperatures remain consistent.

Popular Refuge Spots for Manatees

Locally in Central Florida, manatees are migrating to several well-known warm-water havens, including:

  • Blue Spring State Park in Volusia County: A designated manatee refuge, Blue Spring is a critical spot for these creatures during the winter months. Park officials report that dozens of manatees have already gathered in the spring, where water temperatures stay around 72°F year-round.
  • Power Plant Discharge Areas in Brevard County: The warm waters released from power plants, such as those near Cape Canaveral, are also attracting large numbers of manatees seeking shelter from the cold.

Manatee Conservation Efforts

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) continues to monitor manatee populations during this cold stretch, ensuring their safety and tracking their movement to warm-water refuges. Wildlife officials urge boaters in Central Florida to exercise caution, as manatees often congregate in shallow waters during cold spells and are at a higher risk of boat strikes.

Additionally, organizations like Save the Manatee Club are emphasizing the importance of protecting critical habitats and educating the public on how to coexist with these endangered animals. Visitors to areas like Blue Spring State Park are encouraged to observe manatees from designated viewing platforms and avoid disturbing them.

Cold Weather Brings Awareness to Manatee Challenges

This cold stretch not only highlights the manatees’ reliance on warm-water habitats but also brings attention to the broader challenges they face, including habitat loss, water pollution, and food shortages caused by declining seagrass beds. While many manatees are finding safety in warm refuges, conservationists stress the need for long-term solutions to protect these iconic marine mammals.

As temperatures are expected to remain below average for the next several days, both residents and visitors have an opportunity to witness these remarkable animals in their natural habitats, while also gaining a greater appreciation for the efforts needed to ensure their survival.