This comparison to cows stems not only from their placid grazing habits but also from their physical appearance and large size. Observing these serene creatures swimming leisurely on their backs, exposing their snouts and flippers to the sun, is a delightful sight that captivates the hearts of wildlife enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
West Indian manatees are known for their social behavior, and they are often found congregating in groups that can number up to a hundred individuals. These gatherings underscore their communal nature, though they are equally adept at embarking on solitary journeys. Their migratory patterns are significantly influenced by water temperature. As creatures that require warm environments to thrive, they instinctively move toward warmer waters when sea temperatures drop below 18°C (64°F). During colder months, naturally, warm water springs and the warm water discharges of power plant lagoons become crucial sanctuaries for these manatees, providing them with a refuge from the chill.
Feeding primarily on a variety of aquatic plants, such as seagrasses and water hyacinths, the West Indian manatee’s downward-facing muzzle is perfectly adapted for grazing on underwater vegetation. On rare occasions, they may diversify their diet with small fish, displaying a degree of dietary flexibility. This herbivorous diet is central to their role in maintaining the health of aquatic ecosystems. By consuming large quantities of vegetation, manatees help control the growth of seagrasses and other plants, thus ensuring a balanced aquatic environment.
A distinctive feature of the West Indian manatee is its flippers, which bear three to four fingernails—a trait that not only aids in their movement and feeding but also distinguishes them from other manatee species. These flippers are versatile tools, enabling manatees to maneuver through the water, grasp or manipulate food, and interact with their environment and each other.
Distribution
Anguilla
Official estimate
Antigua & Barbuda
Official estimate
Aruba
Official estimate
Bahamas
Barbados
Official estimate
Belize
Bonaire
Official estimate
Brazil
British Virgin Is.
Cayman Islands
Colombia
Costa Rica
Cuba
Curaçao
Dominica
Official estimate
Dominican Republic
French Guiana
Grenada
Official estimate
Guadeloupe
Official estimate
Guatemala
Guyana
Haiti
Honduras
Jamaica
Martinique
Official estimate
Mexico
Montserrat
Official estimate
Nicaragua
Panama
Puerto Rico
Saint Barthélemy
Official estimate
Saint Lucia
Official estimate
Saint Martin
Official estimate
Saint Vincent
Official estimate
Sint Maarten
Official estimate
St. Kitts & Nevis
Official estimate
Suriname
Trinidad & Tobago
Turks & Caicos
US Virgin Islands
United States
VenezuelaAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
