Manatee are generally solitary, because they do not rely on others to find food or for defense.

They can form groups in areas with ideal water temperature and abundant food, but do not observe any social hierarchy. Only mothers and young demonstrate long-term relationships.

Scientific Name: Trichecus manatus

Conservation Status: Vulnerable

Size: Average length: 9.8 ft

Weight: Average mass: 881 lb

Close-up photo of a young manatee at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Nutrition
The Florida Manatee feeds on sea grasses from the sea floor. Their snout is angled down and they have a flexible, split upper lip that is used to grasp plants.
Current Range and Historic Range
Concentrated around Florida in the winter months, this subspecies will migrate as far north as Virginia and as far west as Louisiana in the summer.
Habitat
Florida Manatees are commonly found in shallow coastal areas, as wells as shallow rivers, estuaries and canals. The ability to withstand large changes in salinity allows them to move between freshwater and marine habitats. They prefer water levels of three to six and a half feet in depth, travel in water that 10-16.5 feet deep, and avoid areas deeper than 20 feet.
Predators and Threats
No natural predators.
Physical Description and Adaptations
Manatees have sparse hairs across their bodies with more dense bristles around their muzzle. They have well developed sight, including a nictitating membrane, which acts as a clear, protective eyelid. They can see colors and patterns. Their rounded tail is used to propel them forward in the water. Lungs extend the length of the animal's body to help them to move up and down in the water.
Communication
Manatees have an excellent sense of hearing. Mothers and calves use squeals to communicate with one another.
Behaviors
Manatee are generally solitary, because they do not rely on others to find food or for defense. They can form groups in areas with ideal water temperature and abundant food, but do not observe any social hierarchy. Only mothers and young demonstrate long-term relationships.
Manatees are active day and night and rest periodically for several hours at a time. They surface every few minutes to breathe, but can hold their breath longer while resting.