By Gabi Scalzitti | January 16, 2023
Are you interested in seeing manatees in their natural habitat? If so, South Florida is a great place to visit!
Manatees are often found in the shallow, freshwater areas of South Florida, including rivers, canals, and other slow-moving bodies of water. They are also found in the coastal waters and estuaries of the region. Manatees are attracted to the warm water sources in South Florida, particularly during the colder months of the year when the water temperatures in other parts of their range may drop too low for them to survive.
If you’re looking to see manatees in South Florida, there are a few great places to visit. One popular spot is Blue Spring State Park in Orange City, Florida. This park is home to a large population of manatees, and is a popular spot for viewing and interacting with these gentle giants. Another great place to see manatees is Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River, Florida. This spring-fed lagoon is a popular winter refuge for manatees, and is a great place to see them up close. Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park in Homosassa, Florida is also home to a large number of manatees, as well as a variety of other wildlife species.
Manatees are most likely to be seen in South Florida during the colder months of the year, when they seek out the warm water sources in the region to escape the lower temperatures in other parts of their range. However, they can be found in South Florida year-round, and can be seen in some areas even during the summer months.
If you’re planning a trip to South Florida to see manatees, it’s important to remember that these animals are protected under federal and state laws, and it is illegal to touch or harass them in any way. Be sure to follow all rules and regulations when viewing manatees, and respect their space to ensure their continued survival and protection.