Florida wildlife
West Indian manatee
Trichechus manatus
Florida's official state marine mammal; gather at warm springs in winter.
See the West Indian manatee up close
Best months
Nov · Dec · Jan · Feb · Mar
Typical viewing is from November through March at warm-water sites like Three Sisters Springs or Blue Spring State Park, but always check the refuge or park report for current manatee presence before heading out.
Where to look
Conservation status
Threatened per USFWS; ~8,000 in Florida waters per FWC 2024 survey
Good to know
What is the best month to see manatees in Florida?
January and February are typically the best months, as cold weather drives the highest numbers of manatees into warm-water refuges like Three Sisters Springs.
Are manatees dangerous to swimmers?
No, manatees are gentle, slow-moving herbivores that pose no threat to people, but federal regulations require maintaining a safe distance and not touching or feeding them.
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