Happy new year! 2025 is five days old, and in my view, so far so good. I’m back home in Boston after 11 days away visiting family and friends. However, I’m already looking forward to my next trip in mid-February. I’m going to see manatees in central Florida!
If you don’t know much about these beautiful and interesting creatures, start here and here. Also say hi to this lovely manatee family.
In the winter, manatees migrate from the Gulf of Mexico to the freshwater springs of Florida, as the water in the Gulf drops below 68F, and the springs maintain a constant temperature of 72F.
Manatees are endangered, but certain kinds of manatee tourism are legal and regulated there. For instance, you can swim with them.
You can also kayak with them. Various tour guides use clear kayaks, the better to see them with.
Manatees are herbivores, eating all sorts of aquatic plants. But, like us, they enjoy treats as well. These volunteers at Homosassa Springs state park found out that manatees also love sweet potatoes.
More pictures and of course a full description will be forthcoming after my trip. Happy first Sunday of 2025!
Readers, have any of you seen manatees in Florida? Any tips? I’d be most beholden.
