Manatee

Manatees can be found in shallow, slow-moving rivers, estuaries, and canals where seagrass and other freshwater vegetation flourish. They migrate throughout the U.S. coast, but can be found in Florida year round. They become most concentrated in Florida during the winter due to the warmer water temperatures.  

Manatees are often slow moving and swim near the water's surface since they breathe air through their nostrils. Because of this, they are at higher risk of watercraft collisions and other human-related contacts. Sarasota County along with 12 other counties are designated as priority protection sites for manatees. Florida Statute requires these counties to develop and implement a Manatee Protection Plan (MPP).

The MPP reduces the likelihood of boat-manatee interactions. In accordance with the Manatee Protection Plan Implementation Code(PDF, 9MB), if a development proposal includes spaces for 5 or more motorized boats (wet or dry slips), a county MPP review is required. The MPP does not apply to single-family docks.

Manatees are also protected under:

• Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act
• Florida Endangered and Threatened Species Rule
• U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act
• U.S. Endangered Species Act

Click here to report a manatee sighting or other wildlife