Manatees An Educator’s Guide

Photo © David R. Schrichte Florida Manatee Fast Facts

Kingdom: Animalia Habitat: Manatees are found and/or drowned in canal locks and Phylum: Chordata in shallow, slow-moving rivers, ­ flood control structures. They can Class: Mammalia estuaries, saltwater bays, canals accidentally ingest fishhooks, litter, Order: Sirenia and coastal areas, particularly and fishing line, or become entangled Family: Trichechidae where seagrass beds or freshwater in crab trap lines. Manatees can Genus: Trichechus vegetation flourish. also die from natural causes such as Species: manatus Range: West Indian manatees cold-related disease, gastrointestinal Subspecies: latirostris are found throughout the wider disease, and pneumonia. Description: West Indian Caribbean basin and within the Legal Protection: Manatees manatees are large, gray aquatic southeastern United States. Florida in Florida are protected under two ­ mammals with whale-like bodies manatees are concentrated in federal laws: The Marine Mammal that taper to a flat, paddle-shaped Florida in the winter. Each summer, Protection Act of 1972 and the tail. They have two forelimbs, called sightings of Florida manatees Endangered Species Act of 1973. flippers, with three to four nails. occur in other southeastern states Manatees are also protected by Their head and face are wrinkled including Alabama, Georgia, and the Florida Manatee Sanctuary with whiskers on the snout. South Carolina. Manatees have been Act of 1978. Size: The average adult manatee documented as far west as Texas Conservation: The Florida is about three meters (9.8 feet) and as far north as Massachussetts. Manatee Recovery Plan is coordi­ long and weighs between 362–544 ­ Food: Manatees are herbivores. nated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife kilograms (800–1,200 pounds). They eat aquatic plants and can Service and sets forth a list of tasks Behavior: Manatees are passive, ­consume about 10–15% of their geared toward recovering manatees slow-moving animals. Most of their body weight in vegetation daily. from their current endangered time is spent eating, resting and Related Species: The West status. These tasks include: the traveling. Manatees are often shy Indian manatee belongs to the development of site-specific boat and reclusive. scientific order Sirenia and the speed zones for manatee protection, ­ Florida manatee is a subspecies of implementation of management Sight: Manatees can distinguish plans, posting of regulatory speed between different-sized objects, ­ the West Indian manatee. Other ­ sirenians include the Amazonian signs, levying fines for excessive colors and patterns and have been speed in designated areas, public known to respond to visual cues manatee, dugong, Steller’s sea cow (extinct), and West African manatee. acquisition of critical habitat, ­ from distances of up to 35 meters creation of sanctuaries, manatee (115 feet) away. Reproduction: As with most research, and education and public Hearing: Anatomically, manatees large mammals, manatees have awareness programs. a low reproductive rate. Manatees have large ear bones and have a If you see an injured, dead, tagged good sense of hearing. It appears are not sexually mature until they are about five years old. On average, or orphaned manatee, or if you see a that they can hear sounds at a wide manatee being harassed, please call range of frequencies, but their sound one calf is born every two to five years, and twins are rare. 1-888-404-FWCC (3922), #FWC localization is poor. or *FWC on your cellular phone, Communication: Manatees Mortality: Many manatee or use VHF Channel 16 on your make sounds that can be described ­mortalities are human-related. Most marine radio. as chirps, whistles or squeaks. human-related manatee mortalities Most communication appears to in Florida are caused by watercraft be between mothers and calves. collisions. Manatees are also crushed Table of Contents Page Save the Manatee Club ...... 2–3 West Indian Manatees: Natural History ...... 4–5 Sirenians of the World ...... 6–7 Sirenian Scientific Classification ...... 8 Aquatic Mammals ...... 9 Florida Manatee Habitat ...... 10 The Four Necessary Elements of Habitat ...... 11 The Hydrologic Cycle ...... 12 Threats to Manatee Survival ...... 13–14 Conservation Efforts ...... 15 Tracking Manatee Movement ...... 16 Other Manatee Research Programs ...... 17 It’s the Law! ...... 18 Manatee Protection Tips ...... 19 Growth Management ...... 20 Classroom Resources ...... 21 What You Can Do To Get Involved ...... 22–23 Classroom Activity Ideas ...... 24–26 Cooperative Learning Activity: Sirenian Species ...... 27–28 Classroom Activity: Public Opinion Poll ...... 29 Classroom or Club Activity: Skit and Manatee Drawing Contest ...... 30 Manatee Pre/Post Test ...... 31 Habitat Pre/Post Test ...... 32 Answer Keys ...... 33 Glossary ...... 34 References...... 35 Notes ...... 36 For more manatee education materials and resources for teachers and students, please visit our web site at www.savethemanatee.org/info Copyright ©2010, Save the Manatee Club. Produced by Save the Manatee Club and partially funded through the generous support of the Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund. Edited by Nancy Sadusky with assistance from Valerie Gohlke. Graphics by Mary Ruth Sprankel. This is the 7th edition of Manatees: An Educator’s Guide. The material in this guide is based on information from the following sources: the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida Power & Light Company, the Marine Mammal Commission, Save the Manatee Club, Sea World Orlando, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the U.S. Geological Survey, Southeast Ecological Science Center, Sirenia Project. Special thanks to Patti Thompson and Judith Vallee, Save the Manatee Club; Dr. Daryl Domning, Howard University; and Dr. Daniel Odell, Sea World Orlando, for reviewing the educator’s guide. In addition, special thanks to Alice Bamberger, Chris Taylor and Carrie Grant-Snyder from the University of Central Florida College of Education for reviewing the classroom resources section of the guide. Thanks also to the Sea Turtle Conservancy and Mary Bourassa for activity ideas used in the classroom resources section of the guide. The front cover photo features a Crystal River manatee with boat propeller scars. Special thanks to David R. Schrichte for donation of the image. Special thanks also to Robert Rattner and to the U.S. Geological Survey, Southeast Ecological Science Center, Sirenia Project for the donation of photos for the back cover. Text and artwork may be copied for educational purposes only and must include reference to Save the Manatee Club as the source.

printed on recycled paper ave the Manatee Club waterproof banners­ that alert boaters to educators across the U.S. and (SMC) is an award- to the presence of manatees. They internationally. In addition, SMC winning 501c3 nonprofit are ­distributed free to Florida boaters has produced the video Manatee S conservation organization, and shoreline property owners. The Messages: What You Can Do! The established in 1981 by singer/ Club also produces posters with video has been distributed free to songwriter Jimmy Buffett and a manatee conservation message schools, libraries, state parks, and former Florida Governor and U.S. that are distributed free to marinas, environmental education centers Senator Bob Graham. Its mission schools, libraries, businesses, and throughout Florida. The Club also is to protect endangered manatees other organizations. provides volunteer speakers when and their aquatic habitat for future In conjunction with the U.S. available to schools and civic generations. SMC raises public Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), groups in Florida and select areas awareness; educates; sponsors SMC has produced brochures high­ across the U.S. In addition, SMC research, rescue, rehabilitation, lighting the problems associated staff work with local, state, and and release efforts; supports land with feeding manatees. national agencies and organizations acquisition; promotes aquatic In addition, SMC has created a on manatee education and public habitat protection; advocates for brochure with manatee protection awareness initiatives. improved protection measures, and tips for divers, swimmers and boaters aids education and conservation with support from the Professional International Activities efforts in other countries. SMC Association of Diving Instructors SMC has funded studies of supports policies that are based on (PADI) and the USFWS. SMC manatees in West Africa, Costa the best scientific data available. and the Army Corps of Engineers Rica, Guatemala, and Mexico. SMC The organization’s Adopt-A-Manatee produced a brochure with tips for also funded a tracking program of program is internationally recognized. boaters to help reduce manatee manatees in Belize and a program to The following information is mortalities at Florida’s canal lock educate villagers in Nicaragua. SMC a description of SMC’s major structures. SMC also produces out­ has given funds to the Caribbean accomplishments and activities. door signs discussing the problems­ Stranding Network in Puerto Rico, of feeding, touching, and giving Aquasis in Brazil, and Wildtracks Public Awareness Programs manatees water that have also been in Belize to care for orphaned and Each year, SMC sends out press distributed at manatee viewing areas injured manatees. The Club pro- releases and public service ads throughout Florida. vided funding toward enforcement on manatee issues to local, state, SMC has started programs in efforts of park rangers at the first national, and international media. Broward County and the Florida manatee sanctuary established in Jimmy Buffett and other celebrities Keys to recycle monofilament fishing the Dominican Republic. SMC has also record public service announce­ line and is one of the partners in the also provided health assessment ments that are distributed to radio statewide Monofilament Recovery support and care for manatees and television stations throughout and Recycling Program, which in Belize, Colombia, Venezuela, the United States. SMC staff handle works to educate the public about Jamaica, and Mexico. SMC provided many requests for manatee infor­ the dangers of discarded line to supplementary food for three captive mation, and the Club maintains a manatees and other wildlife. manatees in Jamaica. Club funds also toll-free telephone number for this helped to monitor a Florida manatee purpose. In addition, SMC maintains Education Programs in the Bahamas and helped establish a web site on the Internet, and SMC SMC provides free manatee edu­ a no-entry sanctuary to protect staff answer e-mail questions about cation packets and staff interviews manatees in Belize. The Club has manatees from the public. for students. An educator’s guide, produced educational materials SMC produces public awareness four-color poster, and coloring and that have been distributed in West waterway signs, boat decals, and activity book are distributed free Africa, Central and South America,

2 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide and the Wider Caribbean. In addition, SMC staff make recommendations on sirenian issues to the IUCN – World Conservation Union. Research Studies SMC has provided funds for equipment used in manatee research such as computers, cameras, diving gear, canoes, research boats, two- way radios, sanctuary buoys, and tracking equipment. The Club has also assisted state and federal governments with research projects such as aerial surveys, seagrass studies, telemetry studies, manatee photo identification projects, population modeling, and the Jimmy Buffett, at far left, and former Florida Governor and U.S. Senator Bob Graham, compilation of over two decades far right, announce the formation of the Save the Manatee Committee at a press of research data on the Blue Spring event in 1981. (Photo by Richard Wells, Orlando Sentinel Star) manatee population in Florida. The trailers to various agencies and federal Endangered Species Act and Club has also funded physiological organizations for manatee rescue Marine Mammal Protection Act. studies and has provided funds and research purposes, including a As necessary, SMC also files legal for a manatee tagging program in pontoon boat to Homosassa Springs challenges against projects that may southern Georgia. In addition, the Wildlife State Park to educate the have adverse effects on manatees Club coordinates a volunteer manatee boating public and to aid in manatee and their habitat. SMC intervenes sighting network to assist in manatee rescue operations. on the state’s behalf when a boat research and management plans. speed rule is challenged. SMC Conservation and has also challenged state and Rescue and Advocacy Programs federal programs that were not Rehabilitation Funding SMC has been part of the U.S. strong enough to ensure adequate SMC staff handle reports from Manatee Recovery Team and has manatee protection and reached the public on injured manatees and participated in drafting and revising landmark agreements that resulted help facilitate rescues. SMC has also the Florida Manatee Recovery Plan. in additional manatee protection provided funds for equipment used Club staff also served on the state of measures. Through SMC’s efforts, in manatee rescue and rehabilitation Florida’s Manatee Technical Advisory these agreements include the efforts, including nets, an isolation Council and make recommendations adoption of boat speed zones pool, a manatee care building and on many state and local task forces. and manatee safe havens and the diving equipment. SMC also helped In addition, SMC staff have reviewed inclusion of important conservation fund a USFWS project to help plans, made recommendations measures as part of coastal develop- re-acclimate manatees to the wild and lobbied to implement manatee ment projects in Florida. and donated funds to help build a protection in Florida’s “key” manatee shelter for injured manatees awaiting counties and other crucial areas For more current information on transport in the Florida Keys. The and coordinated grass roots efforts manatees, the Adopt-A-Manatee® Club also provides funding for on these issues. SMC has provided program, or Save the Manatee Club manatee rescue organizations both comments on permit applications for activities, visit our web site in and outside of Florida. SMC has marine events and coastal develop- at www.savethemanatee.org. contributed funding for equipment, ment. SMC staff address manatee Save the manatee Club aerial surveys and manatee care and issues before Florida’s Governor 500 N. Maitland Ave. feeding during the red tide epizootic and Cabinet and state and federal Maitland, FL 32751 in southwest Florida. In addition, regulatory agency heads. In addition, 1-800-432-Join (5646) SMC has donated seven boats and SMC continues to lobby for a strong

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 3 West Indian Manatees: Natural History

Description them. Gut microorganisms also On the whole, however, the help in digestion. ­sensory systems of manatees have est Indian manatees Both the lungs and the diaphragm not been well studied. Anatomically, are large, gray aquatic of a manatee extend the length of manatees have extremely large ear mammals. Their the body cavity and so are oriented bones and may have a good sense whale-like body tapers W in the same horizontal plane as the of hearing (Bullock et al. 1982). to a flat, paddle-shaped tail. They manatee in the water. An unusual They emit sounds underwater that have two forelimbs, called flippers, anatomical feature of manatees is are used in communicating with on their upper body and no hind that each lung is in a separate cavity. one another. These sounds can limbs. Sparse hair is found on their Instead of one diaphragm like people, be described as chirps, whistles or entire body. Their head and face are manatees have separate “hemi- squeaks. It is not believed that they wrinkled, and their snout has stiff diaphragms.” Besides breathing, are used for navigational purposes. whiskers. The manatee’s closest the lungs help the manatee with Vocalizations may express “fear,” land relatives are the elephant and buoyancy control. Manatees replace “anger” or sexual arousal. They the hyrax, a small, gopher-sized a large percentage of air in their lungs are also used to maintain contact, mammal. with each breath and can therefore especially when manatees are Adult manatees have been known prolong intervals between breaths. feeding or traveling in turbid water. to exceed lengths of nearly four In fact, studies have shown that Most common are vocalizations meters (13 feet) and weigh over manatees can renew about 90% between mothers and calves. A 1,587 kilograms (3,500 pounds); of the air in their lungs in a single mother and calf once separated by however, this is quite above average. breath as compared to humans who a flood gate vocalized constantly The average adult manatee is about renew about 10% (Pabst, Rommel for three hours until reunited three meters (9.8 feet) long and and McLellan in Reynolds and (Reynolds 1981). weighs between 362–544 kilograms Rommel 1999). Adult manatees move through (800–1,200 pounds). At birth, Another interesting thing about the water primarily by the up-and- manatees are about one meter manatees is that they keep replacing down movements of the tail. The (between 3–4 feet) long and weigh their teeth as long as they live. front flippers, which have three to between 27–31 kilograms (60–70 Except for the first three teeth to four nails, are used for steering, ­ pounds). erupt in each row, all of their teeth lateral movement or crawling over Anatomy and Physiology are molars. Their teeth are unique the water bottom and also for because they are constantly replaced. putting food into the mouth. In spite of their size, manatees New teeth form at the back of Manatees with missing or damaged have relatively little body fat. They the jaw, wear down as they move tails rely more heavily on their are herbivores (plant eaters), so forward, and eventually fall out flippers for locomotion. their metabolic rate is low compared (Domning and Hayek 1986). This with carnivorous (flesh-eating) constant tooth replacement is an Behavior aquatic mammals. These factors adaptation to the manatee’s diet, Manatees spend approximately may account, in part, for their ­ which often includes abrasive plants six to eight hours a day feeding susceptibility to cold temperatures. that are mixed with sand. (Reynolds and Odell 1991) and rest Generally, temperatures below 20º C Surprisingly, manatees have approximately two to twelve hours (68º F) are considered too cold and fairly good visual acuity and can a day (Lefebvre and Frohlich 1986). are potentially lethal to manatees. distinguish between different- They graze for food along the water A large percentage of the sized objects, colors and patterns bottom and on the surface of the manatee’s body is taken up by the (Reynolds and Odell 1991). Their water. They may rest submerged at digestive (gut) tract, which includes eyes are small, and they have a the bottom or just below the surface the ­ stomach and intestines. The nictitating membrane that can of the water, coming up to breathe plants that manatees eat have a low be drawn across the eyeball for an average of every three to five nutritional value, so they make up protection. minutes. Intervals between breaths for that by eating large quantities of 4 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide Trichechus Trivia

• A manatee’s age can be determined by the annual growth rings in its ear bones. • Of all the mammals in the world, manatees and sloths Graphic by Mary Ruth Sprankel. are the only mammals with six cervical (neck) vertebrae. All other mammals (even giraffes!) have seven cervical depend upon activity level. When there appears to be a broad spring- vertebrae. manatees are using a great deal of summer calving peak. energy, they may surface to breathe The reproductive rate for manatees • Manatees don’t necessarily as often as every 30 seconds. When is low. The age of sexual maturity have daily routines or cycles. resting, manatees have been known for females and males is about five In general, they will feed, to stay submerged for up to 20 years. On average, one calf is born rest or travel at any time of minutes. every two to five years and twins are the night or day. Manatees are agile and have been rare. Intervals between births range • Newborn manatee calves observed in loosely organized, from two to five years. A two-year are capable of swimming playful activities such as bodysurfing interval may occur when a cow loses to the surface on their (Reynolds 1981). They are not a calf soon after birth. The gestation own and vocalize at or territorial animals. Because manatees period is about a year. Males assume soon after birth. have evolved with few natural no responsibility for raising the calf. enemies, they have not needed the Mothers nurse their young for one • Scientists don’t know what protection or cooperation of a herd. to two years, so a calf may remain cues manatees follow, but Consequently, they are semi-social, dependent on its mother during that they seem to know when somewhat solitary animals. They time. Calves nurse underwater from cold weather is coming and sometimes gather in small, informal teats located behind the mother’s seek warm water areas. groups, but they have no leader or flippers and begin to eat plants a • A manatee cannot turn its real herd structure. Manatee aggre- few weeks after birth. head sideways, so it must gations (gatherings) are largely due Manatees are capable of living turn its whole body around. to common habitat requirements more than 60 years. However, the such as warm water, fresh water many threats they face in the wild, • Water conducts heat or food sources. particularly from human activities, away from the body of a can significantly shorten their mammal up to 25 times Breeding and Reproduction lifespan. In particular, research faster than does air. Manatees do not form permanent conducted at the Florida Fish and • Manatees do not have pair bonds like some animal species. Wildlife Conservation Commission’s eyelashes. During breeding, a single female, Fish and Wildlife Research Institute or cow, will be followed by a group shows cause for concern. This • A manatee can move one side of a dozen or more males or bulls, research revealed that few manatees of its lip pads independently forming a mating herd. They appear were living past the age of 30 and of the other side. to breed indiscriminately during the majority of animals died between • Flatulence is common this time; however, age experience the age of 0 and 10 years – nowhere in manatees. of some males in the herd probably near their estimated life expectancy • Manatees sometimes groan plays a role in breeding success. of 60 years (Bolen 1998; Bolen when they stretch. Although breeding and birth may et. al. 1999). occur at any time during the year,

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 5 Sirenians of the World

North America

europe

ASIA

AFRICA

Dugong dugon Hydrodamalis gigas (Dugong) (Steller’s sea cow)

south America Trichechus manatus AUSTRALIA (West Indian manatee)

Trichechus senegalensis Trichechus inunguis (West African manatee) (Amazonian manatee) This map shows the range of each sirenian species.

anatees and dugongs and ­ shipwreck with mesmerizing form that could only increase after belong to the scientific songs. Throughout history, sailors long months at sea. In fact, manatees order Sirenia. In ancient sometimes thought they were seeing ­ and dugongs may have helped to M mythology, “siren” mermaids when they were probably perpetuate the myth of mermaids. was a term used for monsters or seeing manatees or dugongs. With Outside of Florida, not ­ much sea nymphs who lured sailors and a little imagination, manatees have is known about the population their ships to treacherous rocks an uncanny resemblance to human of West Indian manatees or other sirenians in the world. By far, the largest population of West Indian manatees is found in the United States, primarily in Florida. Elsewhere, they are found in small population pockets throughout their range. All sirenian species in the world are listed as endangered or vulnerable by the IUCN – World Conservation Union. Members of the extant order Sirenia are found in aquatic habitats throughout the tropics and sub­ tropics. Sirenians are the only completely aquatic mammals that are herbivores. Because of their herbivorous nature, all sirenians are found in relatively shallow waters where sunlight can penetrate

Graphics by Mary Ruth Sprankel. and stimulate plant growth.

6 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide Sirenians of the World

Family: Trichechidae West Indian manatee Trichechus manatus Subspecies: Trichechus manatus latirostris (Florida manatee) Trichechus manatus manatus (Antillean manatee) Florida manatees are found in the southeastern United States, mostly in Florida. Antillean manatees are found in the coastal and inland waterways of eastern Mexico, Central America, the Greater Antilles, and along the northern and eastern coasts of South America. Both Florida manatees and Antillean manatees can be found in salt, fresh or brackish waters and feed on marine, estuarine and freshwater vegetation. Amazonian manatee Trichechus inunguis Amazonian manatees are found in the waters of the Amazon River and its tributaries in South America. The smallest member of the family Trichechidae, the Amazonian manatee has smooth skin and no nails on its flippers and feeds on freshwater vegetation. West African manatee Trichechus senegalensis The West African manatee is very similar in size and appearance to the West Indian manatee and lives in similar habitat. West African manatees are found in West African coastal areas, but ­little is known about this species because they have not been widely studied. Family: Dugongidae Dugong Dugong dugon Dugongs are found in the Indo-Pacific region of the world. They have smooth skin and a notched tail fluke. They feed on seagrasses and are hunted for food by humans. Dugongs have tusks, but these tusks characteristically erupt through the gums only in males and normally remain unerupted in female dugongs. Steller’s Sea Cow Hydrodamalis gigas At one time, the Steller’s sea cow was found in the cold waters of the Bering Sea, but it was hunted to extinction within 27 years of its discovery in 1741. The largest sirenian on record, the Steller’s sea cow grew up to nine meters (30 feet) in length and weighed Adapted from original graphics by Mary Ruth Sprankel. Graphics not to scale. around four metric tons (approximately 4.4 tons or 8,818 pounds).

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 7 Sirenian Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Mammals breathe air, nurse their young, have backbones, are warm-blooded and have body hair at some stage of their development. Manatees and dugongs are aquatic mammals. They have a body shape similar to that of whales and seals, even though they are not closely related. Whales and ­ dolphins belong to the scientific order Cetacea. Seals, sea lions and walruses (referred to collectively as “pinnipeds”) belong to the order Carnivora. Order: Sirenia The Order Sirenia includes all manatees and dugongs. All sirenians are herbivores. They have long, streamlined bodies with no distinct neck. They have flippers and a tail that they use for movement. The bones of a sirenian are solid and heavy. Most of the bones, especially the ribs, contain no marrow. However, marrow is found in the vertebrae and in the sternum. In addition, the size of a sirenian’s brain is considered small in relation to their large body size. Family: Trichechidae or Dugongidae Manatees and dugongs fall into two families. The Family Trichechidae includes West Indian, Amazonian and West African manatees. The Family Dugongidae includes dugongs and the extinct Steller’s sea cow, so the dugong is the only living member of the Family Dugongidae. Genus and Species: Family Trichechidae and Family Dugongidae encompass two existing genera (Trichechus and Dugong). The genus Trichechus includes the Amazonian manatee, the West African manatee and the West Indian manatee. In addition, the West Indian manatee is divided into two subspecies: the Florida manatee and the Antillean manatee, which is found in the coastal and inland waterways of Central America, along the northern coast and eastern coasts of South America, and in spotty populations throughout the wider Caribbean basin. Genetic studies using mitochondrial DNA suggest that Florida manatees are descended from Antillean manatees that crossed the Florida Straits from Cuba or the other Greater Antilles (Garcia-Rodriguez et al. 1998). Future studies of nuclear DNA will shed light on pedigree fingerprinting, phylogeography and population status.

Sirenian Taxonomy Kingdom — Animalia Phylum — Chordata This classification system shows Class — Mammalia the biological r­elationship between various species of sirenians. Order — Sirenia Family — Trichechidae Family — Dugongidae Genus — Trichechus Genus — Dugong Genus — Hydrodamalis Species Species Species Species Species Trichechus inunguis Trichechus senegalensis Trichechus manatus Dugong dugon Hydrodamalis gigas (Amazonian manatee) (West African manatee) (West Indian manatee) (Dugong) (Steller’s sea cow) Extinct Subspecies Subspecies Trichechus manatus latirostris Trichechus manatus manatus (Florida manatee) (Antillean manatee)

8 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide Aquatic Mammals

Polar Bear

Walrus quatic mammals are specially adapted ­animals that live totally or partially in the water. They are found in either marine or A fresh water. Some aquatic mammals, like manatees, can live in both. Aquatic mammals are highly adapted to live in Manatee aquatic environments. Their streamlined bodies ­facilitate swimming. Some have layers of body fat, or blubber, to provide insulation against low water temperatures. Other adaptations help them to see, breathe and navigate in the water. Though aquatic mammals have much in common Sea Otter because of their physical structure and aquatic habitat, each is adapted to its own particular lifestyle and niche. Aquatic mammals that live in cold areas or deep water have developed better insulation than manatees require in their tropical home. Predators or carnivores such as the polar bear and killer whale must have Dolphin speed, strength and weapons such as sharp, biting teeth or claws to catch and kill prey. The manatee’s vegetarian diet requires grinding molars and less proficient swimming ability. Sirenians and cetaceans (whales and dolphins) never leave the water during their lifetime. Calves are born and nursed in the water. Breeding, resting and feeding are all done in the water, too. Some aquatic Killer Whale mammals – seals and polar bears for instance – go ashore to breed and raise their young, returning to the ocean to feed. Aquatic mammals must surface to breathe air. In fact, some whales and seals must dive to great depths to find food, so their breath­ holding capacity must be greater. Manatees find food in shallow water, so they do not share this characteristic with whales. Many dolphins, like the bottlenose dolphin, are shallow divers. Although all aquatic mammals share some common Baleen Whale characteristics and problems, each is unique and occupies a special niche in the aquatic environment.

Graphics by Mary Ruth Sprankel. Graphics not to scale.

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 9 Florida Manatee: Habitat

lorida manatees are found in shallow, slow-moving rivers, bays, estuaries and F coastal water ecosystems of the southeastern United States. They can live in fresh, brackish or salt water. Manatees prefer waters that are about one to two meters (3–7 feet) deep. Along the coast, manatees tend to travel in water that is about three to five meters (10–16 feet) deep, and they are rarely seen in areas over six meters (20 feet) deep. This habitat provides them with sheltered living and breeding

Winter Range

Food for Thought Summer Range – Summer Range – Many manatee feeding areas are Common Well-documented, but relatively rare particularly vulnerable to destruction Range of the Florida manatee. by dredge and fill activities, a method for deepening streams, areas, a steady, easily obtainable Food swamps or coastal waters by food supply and warm water – Manatees are herbivores, ­feeding excavating solids from the bottom all of which they need to survive. on a large variety of submerged, and depositing the resulting mud Range emergent and floating plants. (spoil) elsewhere. Sometimes, the Manatees can eat 10–15% of their purpose of dredging is to create Florida ­manatees are somewhat body weight in vegetation daily. new uplands with the spoil mat­ erial. ­migratory. In the winter, usually A 453-kilogram (1,000-pound) Surface water run-off from nearby November through March, the ­manatee, for example, would prob­ construction sites or agricultural ­manatee population is concentrated ably eat between 45–68 kilograms lands, as well as herbicide spraying, ­primarily in Florida. Water tem­pera­ (100­–150 pounds) of food a day. can also harm or destroy ­seagrass tures below 21º C (70º F) usually Seagrass beds and freshwater beds. An increasingly common cause manatees to move into ­submerged aquatic vegetation are­ cause of ­seagrass bed destruction warm refuge areas. Manatees are ­important food sources for manatees. is called “prop scarring,” which susceptible to cold-related disease, Listed below are some main types frequently occurs when a boat’s and they congregate near natural of marine and freshwater vegetation propeller tears and cuts up the springs or warm water effluents­ of in Florida that they prefer to eat: roots, stems and leaves of seagrass. power plants. While coastal and estuarine Marine Vegetation In the summer months, manatees • Syringodium filiforme/Manatee grass ­vegetation has declined in many are much more widely distributed. areas, quite another problem is • Thalassia testudinum/Turtle grass They travel freely around Florida’s • Halodule wrightii/Shoal grass occurring in Florida’s freshwater rivers and coastal waters. A few • Ruppia maritima/Widgeon grass bodies. In recent years, the state manatees may range as far west as Freshwater Vegetation has experienced an influx ofe ­ xotic Texas and as far north as Massa­ species. Although these plants • Hydrilla verticillata/Hydrilla* chusetts, but these sightings are • Vallisneria neotropicalis/ may be a nuisance to na­ vigation, rare. Summer sightings in Alabama, Tapegrass, Eelgrass in some areas they are the main Georgia and South Carolina are • Eichhornia crassipes/Water hyacinth* food source available for manatees. relatively common. • Pistia stratiotes/Water lettuce* *Non-native, or exotic, vegetation 10 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide The Four Necessary Elements of Habitat

uitable habitat for manatees S must ­provide four basic elements: food, water, this includes travel corridors for moving space and shelter. Space from one area Food: Considering to another the amount of food water that manatees eat, ­suitable habitat must provide an abundance of aquatic plants to ­sustain the ­manatees using the area. Shelter Fresh Water: safe, protected Manatee intake of areas water occurs while eating aquatic plants as well as actively drinking. FOOD Research suggests that manatees in salt water can go without drinking fresh water for extended periods. This may explain why manatees can Graphic by Mary Ruth Sprankel. go so easily from their own fresh water needs. Travel corridors, or passageways, freshwater to marine environments. Space: Manatees require space are necessary for manatees to move It also means that people do not to move about. They are migratory back and forth between summer need to give manatees water from and the space (range) they require and winter habitats or between hoses. Manatees can take care of is influenced by seasonal change. ­feeding and resting or calving areas. It has been documented that many Sharing Space manatees have preferred habitats they return to each year. Manatees share their habitat with many living things. It is not Shelter: Manatees must have ­uncommon, for example, to see a manatee swimming near a tarpon, safe, protected areas away from resting next to a sea ­turtle or surfacing beside a brown pelican in a harass­ment, boat traffic and marine environment. Sharks, rays, snook, snapper, flounder and oysters strong current. Shelter continues are found in the manatee’s marine environment as well. However, to become harder and harder for manatees are also found in fresh water. In the manatee’s freshwater manatees to find. As a result, habitat, you can find river otters and fish such as largemouth bass, ­manatees are using less favorable sheepshead, gar and bluegills. You can also find freshwater turtles and habitat where high boat traffic and frogs. Freshwater invertebrates would include snails, mollusks and harassment occur. Such conditions insects. Some species that are found in both freshw­ ater and marine may account for a large portion of environments include ospreys, bald eagles, alligators, herons, egrets human-related ­mortality. and snakes.

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 11 The Hydrologic Cycle

f manatees are to be ­protected, their habitat must also be preserved. I Manatees, humans, and Precipitation all forms of life are dependent on water. In Florida, it is imperative to understand the importance of water Evapotranspiration Evaporation – where it originates and where it goes. The quality and quantity of our water supply affects both our health Springs and the health of manatees as well. SALT MARSHES Water covers three quarters of the Earth’s surface and much of Florida’s Rivers surface area. All water on the planet is part of the hydrologic cycle and Estuaries is constantly circulating from one Oceans part of the system to another in finite amounts. In other words, what we have is what we get! Freshwater Wetlands Water is found in many forms – solid, liquid and gas – and in many bodies such as oceans, bays, estuaries, rivers, springs, lakes, wetlands and aquifers. Surface water evaporates. It is carried through the Earth’s atmosphere as vapor, and then it falls as precipitation. Precipitation, or rain, that falls over land can Graphic by Mary Ruth Sprankel. become runoff and eventually flows into lakes, rivers or wetland areas. constant throughout the year, ­averaging help to pr­ event salt water intrusion Some precipitation percolates into about 22º C (72º F). When surrounding into fresh water supplies, which the ground to replenish the aquifers. river waters chill, manatees move would make drinking water unpotable. Water is absorbed by plants, which into these springs to keep warm. Wetlands remove silt and filter out in turn give some water back to the Springs serve as refuges for manatees many pollutants, including harmful atmosphere from the surface of and as important indicators of the chemicals, all of which can pollute their leaves. This recycling is called health of hydrologic conditions. manatee habitat and human water trans­­piration. Much of Florida’s Much of Florida’s surface area supplies. However, if pollutants groundwater is stored in aquifers, is covered by wetlands. The term are concentrated in high levels, which provide most of Florida’s “wetlands” describes many different wetlands can be altered or destroyed drinking water. Sometimes ground­ types of aquatic environments, and their usefulness diminished or water flows underground to an including coastal and inland eliminated entirely. ­opening in the substrate and becomes marshes, ponds, bogs, wooded Manatees move through a variety a natural upwelling or spring. swamps, bo­ ttomland hardwood of aquatic habitats in Florida and Florida has over 700 known forests and wet meadows. Wetlands are dependent on the health of these springs. Several of the larger springs intercept runoff before it reaches aquatic ecosystems as well as the accessible to manatees are havens rivers and estuaries and are a natural integrity of the hydrologic cycle. in winter months because the water water treatment facility. In many All life forms on Earth are similarly temperature of springs is relatively parts of the state, wetland areas dependent to various degrees.

12 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide Threats to Manatee Survival

ver the years, researchers have attempted to identify and quantify West Indian Omanatee distribution, ­population size and causes of ­mortality in order to understand manatees and the threats to their grow survival. They have isolated several upon causes of manatee deaths, most seagrass blades). Manatees of which are directly related to Graphic by Mary Ruth Sprankel. human contact or encroachment. can get sick or die from If these sources of mortality are ingesting affected seagrasses or sea Consequently, not controlled, manatees may squirts. They can also die from manatees suffer injury become extinct. breathing in a concentrated aerosol form of the red tide toxin. Red tide and death due to the crushing Natural Mortality and other harmful algae blooms impact of the hull and/or slashing may be increasing in frequency of the ­propellers. In the case of large As with all wild animal popu­ and duration due to a wide range power vessels and barges moving lations, a certain percentage of of reasons from anthropogenic through shallow waters, manatees ­manatee mortalities is attributed (human-caused) contamination may be caught between the vessel to ­natural causes of death such as to climate change. and the water bottom, or the vessel cold stress, gastrointestinal ­disease, and a docking structure, and crushed. pneumonia and other diseases. Human-Related Mortality Most worrisome is the fact that Cold Weather Any species of animal living in the watercraft collisions are the leading During winters in Florida that have wild will suffer losses from natural cause of death of reproductive-age been unusually cold, an increase in causes and can usually overcome manatees. Large mammals like the manatee mortality has been docu­ those losses. But manatees, as manatee that have a long potential mented. Manatees cannot tolerate well as many other wild animal life span and a low reproductive rate temperatures below 20º C (68º F) populations, must also deal with a normally have a low adult mortality for long periods of time. Researchers high number of additional mortalities rate. Losing reproductive, adult believe that individuals affected by from human-related causes. Because female manatees can be doubly the cold cannot produce enough human-related manatee deaths are lethal if they are pregnant or have metabolic heat to make up for heat preventable, this area is the most a dependent calf. loss in the environment. logical place to begin in order to Pollution Red Tide reduce mortalities. Water pollution can be caused Red tide is a term used for the Watercraft Collisions by many of the items we use in our ­proliferation or “blooms” of tiny daily lives like pesticides, herbicides Watercraft-related manatee ­ organisms called dinoflagellates. The and detergents. Storm water runoff mor­tality is the leading identified organism’s plant pigments can cause and industrial chemicals may poison cause of manatee death in Florida. the water to appear red, green, or waterways and food sources that West Indian manatees can swim yellow. Microscopic, but found in manatees utilize. Oil exploration and up to 32 kilometers (20 miles) per great abundance, these organisms possible oil spills are potential threats hour in short bursts, but they usually give off a toxic by-product that affects to all marine and estuarine habitats. the central nervous system of creatures only swim about five to eight kilo­ in the area of the bloom. The toxins meters (three to five miles) per hour. Litter accumulate in shellfish and other Because manatees are slow-moving, Debris in the waterway, such as filter feeders like sea squirts. Toxins need to surface to breathe air, and dis­carded fishing line and hooks, are also absorbed by seagr­ asses and prefer shallow water, they are plastic six-pack holders and plastic their epiphytes (the organisms that vul­nerable to collisions with boats. Continued on page 14 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 13 Threats to Manatee Survival continued from page 13 Warm Water Refuges bags, is dangerous to manatees and problem is particularly acute in south at Risk other forms of wildlife. Entanglement Florida where there are many water Warm water sources for in or ingestion of litter has caused control structures. Manatee deaths ­manatees are at risk of disap­ manatee injury and death. Manatees from drowning have also occurred pearing as aging power plants can drown in nets or die from when the tremendous suction that go offline and spring flows are infection caused by entanglement in is ­created by water rushing through affected by Florida’s growing crab trap lines, monofilament fishing opening gates pins animals under human population and its line or hooks. Sometimes manatees the water. The South Florida Water water needs. Such loss of warm survive but with amputated or Management District and the U.S. water habitat could result in mutilated flippers. Army Corps of Engineers have been cata­strophic manatee die offs working to monitor the opening and during cold winters. We need to closing of these structures. They maintain spring flows and devise have added mechanical devices warm water alternatives before and sensors in some locations to power plants go offline. reverse gate action when a manatee is detected to prevent this type of death from occurring. herbicides, surface runoff, ­propeller dredging, and dredge and fill Perinatal (Dependent Calf) projects. There are very few places Perinatal, which means “around left where manatees are free from birth,” includes all manatees less the danger and harassment posed than 150 centimeters (about 5 feet) by human activity. Graphic by Mary in length. This is not really a “cause Ruth Sprankel. of death” category. Instead, it means Climate Change Harassment­ that the manatee died around the Climate change is an increase Harassment refers to any act that time of birth and was not determined in the average temperature of the causes manatees to change their to have died from human-related Earth’s near-surface air and oceans. ­natural behavior. This can include causes (Manatee Salvage Database). Causes of climate change can approaching or chasing manatees. All wild populations of animals be both natural and man made. Touching, poking or riding manatees have a relatively high, inherent rate Currently, however, man-made is also considered harassment. In of death among newborns, but the sources are primarily to blame. addition, feeding manatees or giving number of manatee calf mortalities As temperatures and sea levels them water from a hose can also be appears to be increasing in recent rise, seagrass beds, the primary food considered harassment. Harassment years. Scientists are not sure yet source for manatees, must be able can force manatees to leave preferred if this is true, but they are very to grow quickly enough to colonize habitat such as warm water refuges, concerned about this category of in shallower, sunnier areas. As or it can lead to the separation of death and are ­looking closely at sea levels continue to rise, paving a mother and calf – both of which ­possible causes. Unfortunately, or man-made walls may make it can be life-threatening situations. most calf carcasses are very impossible for the grasses to grow. Feeding manatees or giving them decomposed by the time they are In addition, manatee migration water disrupts the manatee’s normal discovered. This limits scientists­ ’ routes may be blocked by bulk­ behavior and conditions them to ability to determine cause of death. heading, seawall construction, and take food or water from people. other developments undertaken to Loss of Habitat Because they have become accus­ protect homes and property from tomed to humans, some manatees Ultimately, loss of habitat is the rising water levels. Warmer air from have been harassed or fed dangerous, most serious long-term threat facing climate change can contribute to non-food items. manatees and other Florida wildlife more ­frequent and intense storms, today. The growth in human popu­ which can kill, displace, or otherwise Flood Control Structures lation and its added pollution, litter harm manatees. Warmer waters Manatees can be crushed in and boat traffic has degraded and/or may also increase the occurrence closing floodgates and canal locks eliminated manatee habitat. Many of harmful algae blooms, such as that are used to protect against salt freshwater and marine grassbeds red tide. water intrusion and flooding. This have been lost due to water pollution, 14 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide Conservation Efforts

anatees are listed by the are drawn by Florida’s spectacular U.S. Fish and Wildlife beaches, warm temperatures and Service as an endangered ­fascinating wildlife. While Floridians Extinction M species under the may take pride in the unique wildlife Endangered Species Act of 1973. found here, many people have no Isn’t A Myth A species is listed as endangered idea how their everyday actions when it is considered in danger threaten such life. Extinction means the last of extinction throughout all or a People who are thrilled to see ­individual of a living species sig­nificant portion of its range. a pelican or manatee also need to has died or been killed, and the Many other species are listed as know that boat collisions kill species has vanished from the threatened, which means they are manatees, that pesticides poison Earth forever. If manatees become likely to become endangered in the coastal birds, and that destruction extinct like the Steller’s sea cow, foreseeable future. The listing of a of habitat for new buildings has they will never return. species as endangered or threatened a peri­lous impact on the state’s Extinction has been a part brings it under the protection of the ­natural resources. Unless Florida’s of the ­natural evolutionary law and signals that efforts should residents and visitors understand process since life began. Mass be intensified to save it through and respect Florida’s wildlife, they extinctions occurred during a ­various recovery actions such as will continue to unknowingly ­mistreat few geological periods, probably habitat protection and ­minimization it. Public awareness and concern because of abrupt geological or of human-related impacts. The con­ are necessary to insure that sound climatological changes. During servation and recovery of a species protection for natural resources will most of the geological periods, is a complex endeavor. It involves be legis­lated and enforced. new species formed at a rate research, education, and the establish­ greater than that of extinction, ment of laws and guidelines. Step 3: and the Earth’s ­biological diversity Laws and Guidelines gradually increased. Today, how­ Step 1: ever, there is evidence that the Research Establishing and enforcing laws world may be experiencing a and guidelines is the third vital step massive reduction of this diversity. As a first step, scientific research in the conservation of endangered Human population­ growth and must be conducted to learn what species. Establishing regulatory habitat destruction are the cause, manatees need to survive, how they zones, developing and implementing and it appears that the conse­ behave, and what the threats are Manatee Protection Plans and other quence will be the loss of a to their continued existence. With management plans, acquiring land, substantial part of the Earth’s data, scientists can provide the creating protection zones and living resources. ­information and documentation penalizing violators of the law Some biologists estimate that that can lead to their protection. are essential if manatees are to be over one million species will go protected. However, these protective extinct in our lifetime. According Step 2: mechanisms cannot be executed to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Education without strong citizen support and Service, there are cur­ rently over involvement. It is never too early to 1,900 species listed as endangered Because so many manatees are start. Young people should be intro­ or threatened worldwide. Of injured or killed by human activity, duced to local, state and national course, these figures don’t take education and regulation of human government processes that shape into account the many species activities must also be heavily natural resource policies so they are that are endangered but not listed stressed. Florida is growing at an aware that they have a voice in our as such, or not even discovered alarming rate, and many of the Earth’s future and their own quality yet, by scientists. ­people moving here are attracted of life. by the state’s natural beauty. They

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 15 Tracking Manatee Movement

n important part of ­manatee research involves determining animal Manatee Tags A movements and critical habitat. This research is conducted If you see a manatee with a ­transmitter, by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, please call this toll free number: the U.S. Geological Survey Sirenia Project, and the Florida Fish and 1-888-404-FWCC, #FWC or *FWC Wildlife Conservation Commission. on your cellular phone. One way that researchers monitor manatees is by using satellite Note when and where seen tracking devices. The satellite and the position tracking device, or “tag,” is a of the color bands. transmitter encased in a floating tube. The tag assembly consists of a belt that fits around the base of the manatee’s tail, and about a Color Bands one-meter (four-foot) long, flexible nylon tether that is attached to the tracking device. The tag assembly does not harm the manatee or affect its freedom of movement, and it is designed with a “weak link” so it will break loose if it becomes entangled in vegetation or debris. Radio signals sent from the trans­mitter are received by polar orbiting satellites and analyzed to yield accurate location data on the ­manatee. Sensors built into the unit give additional data on water tem­perature and the manatee’s ­activity. Researchers can access this information daily by computer. Researchers have been able to Please do not touch record some interesting and infor­ or grab the tags. They are mative manatee movements as a harmless to the manatee. result of the tagging program. One manatee made a 321-kilometer Your reports help with research (200-mile) trip from Brevard County to Port Everglades in less than 10 on the en­ dangered manatee. days. Another manatee moved between Fernandina Beach and Graphic by Mary Ruth Sprankel. Brevard County, Florida, seven times, making this 241-kilometer (45 miles) per day and traveled sighted in Cape Cod, Massac­ husetts! (150-mile) trip in less than four into the Atlantic Ocean and along These long-distance ­movements days on at least one occasion. the beach for se­ veral portions of had not previously been documented She swam nearly 72 kilometers the journey. Another manatee was for ­individual manatees.

16 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide Other Manatee Research Programs

ith a better scientific (animal autopsy) on dead understanding of ­ animals, scientists can mana­tees, responsible determine some causes W management and of manatee deaths. Other ­recovery projects can be undertaken. valuable information can In addition to the manatee tracking be collected concerning program, the rescue and rehabili­ length, weight, stomach tation, carcass salvage, photo contents and pathology. ­identification/scar pattern, and Cause of death is divided ­synoptic survey programs are all into categories and designed to provide scientific data quantified so researchers that can help manatee conservation can better understand efforts in Florida. the dangers to manatees. Rescue and Rehabilitation MIPS Program Sightings of sick, injured, orphaned, Most adult manatees tagged or harassed manatees can inhabiting Florida waters be reported to the Florida Fish and are scarred from collisions Wildlife Conservation Commission with boats. Researchers (FWCC). Wildlife officials will can use these scars investigate and, if need be, coordi­ to identify individual nate the rescue of sick, injured or animals. By observing an orphaned manatees. Sea World individual over the course Orlando, Lowry Park Zoo, and the of time, researchers Miami Seaquarium are the three can learn many things © Robert Rattner. Adapted from original photograph. critical care facilities in Florida about migration, travel, authorized to capture, transport important habitat and and/or treat these animals under other behavioral factors, as well as Synoptic Survey Program the joint supervision of the U.S. determining life history aspects such A synoptic survey is a statewide Fish and Wildlife Service and as population trends. aerial survey that shows manatee the FWCC. In addition to these The U.S. Geological Survey distribution in winter and gives a facilities, other entities are involved Sirenia Project, in cooperation with minimum population count at a in verification of injury, rescue and the FWCC, maintains a Photo CD- ­particular point in time. Researchers transportation under the super­vision based computerized database of conduct the surveys following major of the rescue coordinator at the distinctively scarred manatees cold fronts that cause manat­ ees to FWCC. statewide. This database is called be gathered at warm water sources the Manatee Individual Photo- around Florida. It is evident that The Salvage Program Identification System (MIPS). there is a tremendous amount of The Manatee Carcass Salvage Manatees are often photographed variability among the survey results. Program is operated by the FWCC. for inclusion in the MIPS when That is because the manatee counts Its purpose is to examine manatees they are gathered at warm water from the synoptic surveys are very found dead in Florida and other refuges in the winter and at various dependent on weather conditions. parts of the southeastern United areas they frequent in the summer. Factors such as wind, glare, water States to try to determine the cause Captive manatees reintroduced to clarity (turbidity), and the cold of death. Anyone can help by the wild and wild manatees that are front’s length and severity all affect calling to report the sighting of a radiotagged and released are also the researchers’ ability to see and dead manatee. By doing a necropsy photographically documented. count manatees.

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 17 It’s The Law!

Legend: 13 Key Counties

Duval

anatees are protected by Florida Department both federal and state of Environmental Volusia laws. The Endangered Protection to work Citrus M Species Act (ESA) of with 13 “key” manatee 1973 is perhaps the most important counties to implement federal wildlife law that assists in the measures for reducing protection of manatees and other manatee injuries and Brevard endangered and threatened species. deaths. These counties Indian The Florida Manatee Recovery Plan include: Duval, Volusia, River was developed as a requirement of Citrus, Brevard, Indian the ESA. The recovery plan is coor­ River, St. Lucie, Martin, St. Lucie dinated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Palm Beach, Broward, Dade, Sarasota Martin Service and sets forth a list of tasks Collier, Lee and Sarasota. geared toward recovering manatees Historically, most of the human- Palm Beach from their current endangered status. related manatee ­mortality has Lee The ESA also provides protection occurred in these counties. Their Broward of critical habitat. The Marine waters offer important feeding, Collier Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) resting and migratory areas for of 1972 provides federal protection manatees. Both state and federal for ­manatees and other marine experts agree that watercraft Dade mammals, including restrictions on collisions represent the greatest products derived from these animals. immediate threat to the survival of Florida laws to protect manatees manatees. The first task of these 13 were enacted as early as 1893. county governments, working with Manatees are also protected by the state, was to de­ velop site-specific the Florida Manatee Sanctuary boat speed zones for manatee Act of 1978. Anyone convicted of protection. Their second task is to violating Florida’s state law faces a develop ­comprehensive manatee that in recent years other counties possible maximum fine of $500 and/ ­protection plans. Among other besides the original key counties are or imprisonment for up to 60 days. things, these manatee protection being identified as important habitat Conviction on the federal level plans will include a boat facility for manatees, and watercraft-related is punishable by a fine of up to siting element, manatee sighting and mortality in some of these counties $100,000 and/or one year in prison. mortality information, identification is rising at an alarming rate. These of land acquisition projects for counties include: Hillsborough, Manatee Protection ­manatee protection, law enforcement Pinellas, Manatee, Charlotte, Glades In Florida coor­dination, and an education and and Monroe. Speed zones and mana­ In October of 1989, Florida’s ­public awareness program. tee protection plans will need to be Governor and Cabinet directed the It should be noted, however, developed for these counties as well.

18 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide Manatee Protection Tips

When Operating Your Boat, When Boating Please Observe These • Wear polarized sunglasses. They can eliminate the glare of the sun and Regulatory Signs: help you to see below the water’s surface. • Stay in deepwater channels when boating. Avoid boating over seagrass Slow Speed beds and shallow areas where manatees might be feeding (but be aware Manatee that manatees also use deepwater channels when traveling). Area • Look for a snout, back, tail or ­flipper breaking the surface of the water, or a swirl or flat spot on the water that is created by the motion of the Nov. 15 to Mar. 31 ­manatee’s tail when it dives or swims.

Slow Speed is the speed at which the boat is • If you see a manatee when oper­ating a powerboat, remain a safe ­distance ­operating off-plane and settled into the water. away – 15 meters (50 feet) is the suggested minimum. If you want to observe the manatee, cut the motor, but do not drift over the animal.

Idle Speed • If you like to jet-ski, water-ski or participate in high-speed water sports, choose areas that manatees do not or cannot frequent, such as a Manatee land-locked lake or waters well offshore. Area • Obey posted speed zone signs and keep away from posted manat­ ee ­sanctuaries.

Idle Speed is the minimum speed that will Stash Your Trash! ­maintain steerage of the vessel. • Recycle your litter or throw it in a proper trash container. Debris in waterways, such as discarded plastic bags or six-pack holders, is dangerous No Entry to manatees and other forms of wildlife. • Discard monofilament line or ­fishing hooks properly (better yet, recycle it!). Not only are they ­dangerous for manatees, other aquatic animals and swimmers, but discarding monofilament line into or onto the waters of Manatee Refuge the state of Florida is against the law. This sign appears at a manatee refuge area. Hands Off No swimming, boating or diving is allowed in the refuge area. • Resist the urge to feed manatees or give them water. Not everyone loves manatees and feeding them or giving them water could encour­age them to Resume Normal swim to people who might be cruel to them. Their natural feeding patterns may also be altered by encouraging them to “hang around” waiting for food or water. When hand-fed lettuce or water from a hose is no longer available, manatees may not know where to find or how to identify natural, reliable sources of food. Safe Operation • “Look, but don’t touch” is the best policy when swimming or diving. By This sign appears at the end of a quietly observing ­manatees from a distance, you will get a rare opportunity protected area. You will see it as you to see the natural behavior of this unique animal. Any other actions might leave the area. be considered harassment, which is against the law.

Did You Know? Call 1-888-404-FWCC, #FWC or *FWC It is now a second-degree misdemeanor on your cellular phone, or use to intentionally discard any monofilament VHF CHANNEL 16 on your marine radio fishing line or netting into or onto the waters if you spot an injured manatee. of the state of Florida.

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 19 Growth Management

very serious threat The problem of overpopulation in part from overseas, but especially to manatees, as well is by no means unique to Florida, from other parts of the United States. as to Florida’s whole however. Species extinction, What we must consider, in order to A environment, is our pollution and the depletion of protect our fragile environment, is growing ­population. Manatee resources we see happening in an array of strategies – national and habitat and the habitat of many Florida are occurring around the inter­national as well as statewide – other species in Florida has been world. Besides ­environ­mental to address and defuse the causes lost due to the staggering amount ­damage, ­population growth is also of this destructive explosion in the of development that has occurred at the root of poverty, urban ­dete­ state’s population (see, for example, in recent years. rioration and economic stagnation. Kolankiewicz and Beck 2001, Other stresses on Florida’s envi­ There are no easy answers. Many Overpopulation = Sprawl in Florida). ronment resulting from ineffective nations are now attempting massive As Florida continues to grow, growth management include water, ­education ­programs, ­promoting ­critical decisions about managing our air, and soil pollution, fragile environment will salt water intrusion, soil become more and more and beach erosion, and difficult. We cannot degradation of our living afford to make decisions coral reefs. Even the based on inadequate ­disposal of our garbage knowledge, because the has become a problem resulting impacts are of great magnitude. To often ­irreversible and put it simply – we are very costly. Floridians running out of space to must learn to determine put our garbage. the long and short-term One of the most ­consequences of their serious problems related decision-making and of to human population the many government growth in Florida is a policies that have direct ­rapidly diminishing effects on ­population ­supply of drinking growth. Even with water. Huge amounts the most careful of water from our planning, continued aquifers are being used Graphic by Navin Patel. population growth for such pur­ poses as will be increasingly agriculture and municipal water widespread use of contraceptives incompatible with protection of ­supplies. Irrigating the hundreds and sterilization, and/or offering the environment, and dealing with of golf courses in Florida requires a incentives for those who limit their its effects will increasingly require tremendous amount of water. As families to one child. However, these an environmentally aware and the aquifers are drawn down from attempts have so far proven unequal informed society. human demands, water managers to the magnitude of the problem. Therefore, it is up to us to become are scrambling to identify other If overpopulation is not controlled, knowledgeable about local, national sources of water to meet future ­disaster may lie ahead. Where and world issues and to involve our needs. Increasingly, ­surface waters ­population growth is concerned, students in these issues. We must from lakes and rivers will be used the only sensible “growth manage­ let them know the proper procedures as well as desalination of coastal ment” is to bring our growth in for ­getting involved in local, state­ waters. All of these withdrawals ­population under control. wide and nationwide planning to will likely pose serious threats to Large numbers of new residents effect positive change and bring manatee habitat. continue to stream into Florida, our runaway growth under control.

20 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide Classroom Activities: Ideas for Supporting Manatee Studies

he following section guide are designed to give you ideas manatees, sirenians of the world and ­contains a collection that you can use to complement habitat issues. You might consider of activities that you what the student is learning both in using the same tests before and after T can incorporate into an and out of the classroom. Research teaching the manatee unit to assess ­existing classroom unit on manatees has shown that the brain seeks student progress. or Florida ecology. Please note ­patterns and connections while Elementary educators: The coloring that these activities are not “stand learning. Many of the activities in and activity book, Manatees: Florida’s alone” educational experiences, but this guide can be effective in helping Gentle Giants, should accompany they can be useful in enriching and students to find patterns in their this guide and features additional enhancing the student’s discovery other studies related to manatees. activities and information suitable of his or her knowledge about Two tests are included in this for elementary-level students. ­manatees. The activities in this ­section that feature questions on

For more manatee education materials and resources for teachers and students, please visit our web site at www.savethemanatee.org/info

These guidelines were taken from North American Association for Environmental Educator’s (NAAEE) Environmental Education Materials: Guidelines for Excellence. You may wish to incorporate them into your ­lesson plans when planning your manatee or Florida ecology unit.

How to Insure a Well-Balanced Presentation of Education Materials • Environmental education materials should reflect sound theories and well-documented facts about subjects and issues. • Make sure your sources of information are clearly referenced. • Present factual information in language appropriate for educating and not propagandizing. • Balance your presentation with differing viewpoints and theories. • The materials you share should communicate a consensus among scientists or other experts. • The materials should also encourage learners to explore different perspectives and form their own opinions. • Always encourage an atmosphere of respect for different opinions and openness to new ideas. • Have students collect their own data and see how it compares with the experts. • Learners should be challenged to use and improve their critical thinking and creative skills. If you would like more information on NAAEE, please contact them at 2000 P Street NW, Suite 540, Washington, DC 20036. Phone: 202-419-0412, www.naaee.org.

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 21 What You Can Do To Get Involved

Adopt a Manatee Change Personal Behavior and Support Manatee Have your students consider what Conservation and behavior they could change to lessen Education Efforts their impact on the environment for ave your class adopt a minimum of a week. a manatee through First, consider activities we do on Save the Manatee a daily basis that impact the Earth Club (SMC). The negatively. Ask each student to come H up with two personal behaviors or $20 adoption fee goes directly to habits he or she would be willing support manatee conservation and Graphic by Navin Patel. education efforts. See the enclosed to change. These activities could SMC card and application or contact be as simple as walking instead of Tips for Writing Letters information on page 3 of this guide. being driven, turning off lights when to Decision-Makers leaving a room, or pulling weeds Reduce Trash and Recycle to limit the use of pesticides. They 1. Original letters count most could cut their shower time in half and a regular letter usually carries Have each class member bring to save water and pick up trash when more weight than an e-mail. in all plastic, paper and cardboard they see it on the ground. Hold a Express your views in your own trash collected at home in a 24- class discussion. What if everyone words and, if possible, include a hour period. Discuss the amount changed that same behavior? What personal experience in your letter. the whole school might collect in kind of impact would that have? 2. Address one issue at a time one day. How about the whole city, Next, ask the students to construct and be brief. One page is perfect, the state or the nation? Discuss the a written contract that includes their but you could go to two. Legible, magnitude of non-biodegradable new behavior. Have them report after handwritten letters are fine. solid wastes. Where does it end 3. Your first sentence should a week to see how they did and what up? Some marine animals and birds state where you live, especially a difference they think their new mistake plastic trash for food such if you are a constituent of the behavior made. as jellyfish, while others become elected official to whom you entangled in plastic trash. Ask students Encourage Students To are writing. to research recycling in your area and Become Involved Politically 4. The first paragraph should list ways to reduce trash. explain why you are writing and Students need to know that, as what you want the person to do. Brainstorm About Ways individuals, they have a voice in 5. Ask for a response. For To Protect Manatees governmental processes. When they example: “I look forward to make their wants and needs known, Ask each student to think of ideas ­hearing how you will vote.” they can improve the world. When people could do to help pr­ otect 6. Be polite in the letter and they remain silent, they give their ­manatees. Have them divide their thank the reader for considering power away to others. No one is too activities into two groups, “On your views. Remember, when young to get involved! Students can Land” and “In the Water,” and elected officials receive enough participate by researching issues at come up with ten ideas for each letters about a particular issue, the local level. They can write letters, group. To get started, take a look their opinions can be influenced. send e-mail and attend county com­ at the “Manatee Protection Tips” Be sure students under- mission or city council meetings. page of this guide. Ask students stand the importance of being They can help their community make to research ways that manatees are ­ well informed. Letter writing wise choices between pressures is a very powerful tool for protected and identify how they for growth and needs for strong ­effecting change. might get involved. environmental protection. Source: Sea Turtle Conservancy

22 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide Write Letters to American Rivers Elected Officials Coordinates National River There are a number of issues Cleanup Week affecting manatees and their habitat 1101 14th St. NW that involve local, state and federal Suite 1400 governments. Students can visit the Washington, DC 20005 Save the Manatee Club web site at 202-347-7550 www.savethemanatee.org and go www.nationalrivercleanup.org to the “Take Action!” page to find current information. The Ocean Conservancy If students would like to help, Coordinates the International Coastal Cleanup they can write a letter or send an Graphic by Mary Ruth Sprankel. e-mail to Florida’s governor to 1300 19th Street, NW show strong support for manatee Washington, DC 20036 protection in the state of Florida. 800-519-1541 endangered in Florida?” “Because so Next, they can write their U.S. www.oceanconservancy.org many of them are killed by boats.” “Why are so many manatees killed ­senator and representative (if you Keep America Beautiful by boats?” “Because there are so live in Florida, ­students can also Coordinates the annual many boats out on the water.” write their state senator and rep­ Great American Cleanup “Why are there so many boats out resentative) to tell them how 1010 Washington Boulevard there?” “Because people need boats ­important manatees are and ask them Stamford, CT 06901 to do things on the water.” “Why to support protection for manat­ ees 203-659-3000 do people need to do things on the and their habitat and to keep other www.kab.org environmental laws strong. You can water?” “Some people make a living find contact information for all of Discuss Why that way; others just like to use boats these people at the “Take Action!” Different Policies for recreation.” “Why do so many page on the SMC web site. Have Different Effects people need to do those things?” Encourage students to use the Organize Recycling Have each student think of reasons “why” technique to get to the bottom and Cleanup Efforts why people move to Florida. If some of complex questions surrounding of your students are recent arrivals, The best way to get your students the protection of ­manatees and their invite them to share the r­easons why involved in recycling at home is to habitat as well as other issues. their families moved here. Discuss show them how it’s done. Start a the reasons behind those reasons Discuss “Quality of recycling program at school and (e.g., lack of jobs and the govern­ Life” Issues make it the students’ project by ment policies­ that contribute to ­putting them in charge. Have them Ask the students to identify that condition; lower taxes in Florida find out what products are made environmental changes that might and the demographics behind ­oppo­ from recycled materials and what affect their quality of life, i.e. sition to a state income tax) and materials are recyclable. Students diminishing water supply, green have students think of how different could also start a monofilament spaces and loss of biodiversity. policies might have different effects. line recycling program in their How would their quality of life community. Get to the Bottom of be affected by the extinction of a In addition, students can organize Complex Questions species? How about the quantity a cleanup effort of local waterways of potable water or the loss of or participate in organized cleanups. A technique that some people have protected green spaces? Is the To find out more about how to found useful in getting to the bottom quality of life affected by increasing organize a cleanup or par­ticipate of complex questions is ­simply to human populations? These are just in one, contact your local city or ask “Why?” several times in a row. a few suggestions. Ask your students county environmental resources A classroom discussion­ structured to think of others and compare the department or contact the this way might follow a path some­ thresholds of various students on following organizations: thing like this: “Why are manatees ­different quality of life issues.

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 23 Classroom Activity Ideas

he following activity could also identify ways that they In addition, ask students to compare ideas are offered to help can help protect the environment the amount of food they eat to the you use the information so manatees can continue to survive. amount of food the manatee needs. T in this guide in your The manatee habitat display activity They can examine weight, caloric classroom. We have tried to include (see following page) could be a great value and health benefits, among activities that incorporate art, math, outcome from the student’s research. other things. They can also compare geography, political science, writing an herbivorous diet with an omniv­ and biology. These activities can be Comparison Studies orous or carnivorous diet and the easily modified for any grade level There are several comparison anatomical differences between by adjusting the amount of detail. ­studies students can do on the topic herbivores, omnivores and carnivores. of manatees and their habitat. First, Finally, encourage a comparison What Do Manatees ask students to compare their weight study that focuses on marine and Need to Survive in Their to a manatee. The average weights freshwater animals that live in the Environment? of the West Indian manatee and the Florida manat­ ee’s habitat. Is there Ask students to decide what Steller’s sea cow are given earlier in any ­competition for resources? this guide. Bring a scale to class and ­manatees need to survive in their Explore the Technology environment. have 10 students volunteer to be From this discussion, inquire as weighed individually. Keep track of Involved in Tracking to other questions students might each student’s weight and see how Manatees have about manatees and their many students it takes to add up Radio signals from manatee tracking ­environment. Allow the students to the weight of one West Indian devices are received by polar orbiting to research and explore just how manatee. What about the Steller’s satellites and analyzed to yield manatees have come to survive as sea cow? Next, do the same exercise locational data. Sensors built into long as they have. Perhaps students for length (see chart below). the unit give additional data on

Size Comparison of Sirenians and Humans

Steller’s Sea Cow 7–9 meters (24–30 feet)

West Indian Manatee Dugong 3–4 meters (10–13 feet) 2–4 meters (8–13 feet) West African Manatee 3–4 meters (10–13 feet)

Amazonian Manatee 3 meters (10 feet)

24 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide water temperature and the manatee’s survival. You could even turn your Establish a Class ­activity. Researchers access the classroom into a manatee habitat! Manatee Sighting and ­information daily by computer. Mapping Program 1. Have the class research infor­ Write Laws to mation about satellites. What are Protect Sirenians Jemp is a West Indian manatee who was rescued in July 1995. One they? How do they work? How do Ask students to investigate how month later, he was tagged and they get up in space? What does laws to protect manatees and their released in Tampa Bay. Over the “polar orbiting” mean and why is habitat are formed at different levels years, Jemp’s travels have taken this kind of satellite useful? of U.S. government: federal, state, him up and down the west coast 2. Contact an electronics expert county or city. Next, divide students of Florida. Jemp has been spotted at your local high school, vocational into groups that represent the various in waters near Port Charlotte, St. school or community college. Ask government levels. They can also Petersburg, Everglades City, Tampa him or her to be a guest speaker and create an international government. Bay, Sarasota and Port of the Islands. give information on radio ­signals. Each group should be in charge of 1. Have students find these areas How does the information from the developing recommendations to on a map and plot Jemp’s favorite transmitter get up to the satellite and ­protect the sirenian species and hangouts with pushpins. Find the down to the researchers? What do habitat within their area. Have the latitude and longitude of these the terms “uplink” and “downlink” groups write a report on their law ­locations. mean? How are research data decoded­ and give an oral presentation to 2. Calculate the distance Jemp has by the computer? the class. They can make use of traveled between these spots. Figuring 3. Have the students explore other research materials such as the edu­ that manatees swim an ­average of things that use radio com­mu­ni­cations. cator’s guide, the Internet and other 5–8 kilo­meters (3–5 miles) per hour, For example: a television, radio, resources in the library to write their how long would it take Jemp to get microwave, garage-door ­opener and report and create their presentation. from one destination to another? cellular telephone all use radio signals. The ­students’ law should answer Why do you think he chooses these these questions: Why are sirenians ­particular spots? Create a Manatee Myth endangered? What specific actions 3. Visit a web site on the Internet Sailors throughout history often are necessary to save them? How that has manatee tracking information thought they were seeing mermaids will these actions be carried out? (See www.savethemanatee.org/ when they were really seeing Where will the money come from? tracking_manatees.htm) and do manatees. “Sirenia,” the name of the How can the public help? What a search for tracking programs for ­scientific order to which manatees will be the penalties for breaking other species. belong, comes from the ancient the law? How will it be enforced? mythological word “siren,” a term Does the governmental entity (the Cast a Deciding Vote used for monsters or sea nymphs United Nations, for example, or who lured sailors and their ships to a state wanting a less restrictive Ask students to imagine that they ruin with their mesmerizing songs. law than the federal government) are serving as city commissioners for Create a mythological story about really have the legal authority to a coastal county in Florida. The city sailors and manatees incor­porating pass and enforce such a law? If commission has to cast the deciding facts from this guide. not,why not? What about entities vote on a marina project that could such as the World Bank or the have an impact on manatees and Make a Manatee Habitat World Trade Organi­zation? How wetland habitats by increasing boat traffic on the waterways. However, Make a plaster cast or use materials can rules about something like trade have an effect on wildlife? In the marina project will also create like papier maché and paint to create new jobs through construction and a manatee habitat such as a spring addition, have students research the Endangered Species Act. How tourism, and the town is dependent run. You can also create a diorama on tourists and recreational boaters. in an aquarium. Include aquatic vege­ does their law compare to the ESA? Have students find out more about Ask the students to research the tation, trees, fish, access to a river, pros and cons of the situation, sanctuary signs, boats and people. other organizations that work to preserve wildlife. Are they private or decide how they will vote, and be Create posters or murals showing prepared to defend their position. manatees and threats to their governmental? What do they do? Continued on page 26

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 25 You might have students write and in your area. Ask students to pick draw pictures, write the copy and give speeches or create public service a particular part of the state where make the advertisement appealing announcements based on their water is an important issue (perhaps to the general public. Students research and decisions (see Create their own county) and research that could vote privately and award a a Speech or a Public Service area. Write to water management group “winner.” Submit the ad for Announce­­ment on this page). districts, local governments, chambers publication in an actual newspaper Stress that governmental decisions of commerce and newspapers to or magazine or publish it in the are often complex. Politicians obtain information. Have they school newspaper. must balance their own beliefs and experi­enced any droughts in recent interests with the varied interests years? Floods? Forest fires? Discuss Visit Manatee Viewing and concerns of a multi-faceted these issues in class. What influ­ Areas – In Person or constituency. Ask students to think ences do water issues have on via the Internet of ways to reach a middle ground. wildlif­ e? In addition, discuss and If you live in or near Florida or Perhaps the marina could be identify watersheds, aquifers and Ohio, you can arrange a field trip modified to lessen the impact to recharge areas and their importance for your class to see ­manatees in manatees and their habitat, or the to humans and the environment. order to help students experience number of law enforcement officers What are the conflicts surrounding these animals first hand. If a field for the area could be increased. competing interests for these natural trip is not possible, you may experi­ resources? Discuss Threats to Manatees ence manatees “live” through a Create a Speech or Public virtual tour by visiting the web Discuss the major threats to sites of ­manatee facilities. Go to manatees today: loss of habitat Service Announcement www.savethemanatee.org/places.htm (due to pollution and other causes), Manatees are sometimes uninten­ to see a list of manatee viewing areas. watercraft collisions, litter (such tionally killed or injured by fishing as fishing line or plastic bags), activities. They drown in nets or Manatee Word Scramble harassment and flood gate/canal they can die from infection caused This activity uses words and lock structures. Which is the most by entanglement in crab trap lines, ­concepts related to manatees and serious threat and why? Ask students monofilament fishing line or hooks. dugongs, and it is useful as a review to research a specific area of Florida In Florida, it is a second-degree mis­ of previously introduced materials. and compare how it has changed in demeanor to intentionally discard The activity can also be used to the last 20, 50 or 100 years. Have any monofilament fishing line or stimulate a class discussion of them draw a ­picture representing monofilament netting into or onto concepts associated with manatees, the habitat of 20 years ago, and the waters of the state. other sirenian species, habitat and then have them cross out a portion 1. Have students write a public additional issues. The following to represent the percentage lost. service announcement (PSA) words are selected from the glossary Discuss the causes of this habitat appropriate for television or radio at the end of the guide and scrambled: loss and the consequences of this to educate the general public Cixto, Mslamam, Tysmescoe, Gudnog, loss for manatees and other species. regarding the threats that discarded Vireobrhe, Apdroetr, Enasirni, Cfruaes Also, discuss what can be done to monofilament can cause to wildlife. rawet, Literretras, Sleatwnd, Bathiat, reduce or eliminate these threats. Students may ­create a video or Gydorhlcio lycec, Diel depes, Bricksha, audiotape, or they could perform Discuss How Water-Related Aitcuaq, Spyrecno, Minear, Nolago, the PSA “live” in front of the class. Oxtice piesces, Greeddanen. Issues Affect Our Lives and The recommended length of the PSA Students can work individually or the Lives of Wildlife is 30 seconds. Ask a TV or radio in groups to unscramble each word. Locate the five water management station to broadcast the PSA, play it After they unscramble the words, districts in Florida and their boundaries over the intercom at school, or post ask the students to use each word (do an Internet search for “Florida a video at the school web site. in a sentence and then discuss the Water Management Districts”). Have 2. Suggest that students create meaning of the word and how it the students draw the district boun­ educational posters or an ad relates to manatees. (See answers daries on their map and identify for a magazine or newspaper to Manatee Word Scramble on the major water systems each one about the threats that discarded page 33.) regulates. If you live outside Florida, monofilament line creates for identify the major water systems wildlife. Have students cut out or

26 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide Cooperative Learning Activity: Sirenian Species

Grade Levels 6–10 Objective: This cooperative learning activity is designed as an introduction to the sirenian species of the world. Students will learn to work together and also learn some interesting facts about the natural history and habitat of each species. At the same time, they will be improving their cooperative learning skills. After completing this activity, each student will be able to: 1. Explain at least one fact about a sirenian species. 2. Compare the different geographical areas of the world where manatees and dugongs are found. 3. Chart the scientific classification of sirenians. 4. Describe the habitat of the various sirenian species. Graphic by Mary Ruth Sprankel. Preparation: 5. The first student should hoosec one card and read the three facts on the card aloud, one fact at a time. Make one copy of the Sirenian Species Cards (see following page) for each group of five students 6. After each set of facts on the card is read, the group in your class. Cut the cards out for the students or should decide which sirenian the card is referring to. provide each group with a pair of scissors. The student who has that particular sirenian’s sheet should fill in the facts from the card on their sheet. Exercise Instructions: Follow this same procedure for all the students in the group until each of the five students has read the facts 1. Divide your class into groups of five students. on two cards. Each student should have a blank piece of paper 7. When the cards have all been read and the fact sheets and a pen or pencil. are filled in, ask the students to answer the following 2. Ask each student in the group to be responsible for questions with the information they have obtained: one sirenian species (dugong, West Indian manatee, • From the information you have, can you tell which West African manatee, Steller’s sea cow or Amazonian sirenian weighed the most? manatee). Have the student write the name of the • Which species of sirenian is the smallest? sirenian species that they choose at the top of the • Which sirenian is/was found in cold water? paper and make six spaces to write in sirenian facts. For example: • Two of the sirenians have notched tail flukes. Which ones are they? Dugong 1. • Which sirenian averages three to four meters 2. (10 to 13 feet) in length? 3. • People who live in the United States are most ­ 4. familiar with which sirenian? 5. • Which sirenian is/was without any teeth? 6. • Which sirenian inhabits the western coast of Africa? 3. Give each group a set of the 10 Sirenian Species Cards. • Which sirenian is extinct? If you have provided scissors, ask each group to cut • Which sirenian lives exclusively inland? the cards out. Card Answers: 4. Mix the cards up and place them in a stack. Have the group decide which student will go first, second, third 1. dugong, 2. dugong, 3. Steller’s sea cow, 4. Steller’s sea cow, 5. West Indian manatee, 6. West Indian ­manatee, 7. West African and so on. manatee, 8. West African manatee, 9. Amazonian manatee, 10. Amazonian manatee.

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 27 Sirenian Species Cards

1. Sirenian Species 2. Sirenian Species Can be seen around Australia From the Kingdom Animalia Prefers coastal ecosystems Has a notched tail fluke Has no nails on the flippers 2–4 meters (8–13 feet) in length

3. Sirenian Species Hunted to extinction in 1768 4. Sirenian Species Inhabited cold waters Lived in the Bering Sea Weighed around 4 metric tons 7–9 meters (24–30 feet) in length (approximately 4.4 tons Toothless or 8,818 pounds)

5. Sirenian Species 6. Sirenian Species Classified under This species is strictly Phylum Chordata an herbivore This is the sirenian most familiar 3–4 meters (10–13 feet) in length to people living in the United States Average weight 362–544 kilograms Found in fresh or brackish water (800–1,200 pounds)

7. Sirenian Species 8. Sirenian Species This mammal lives in warm Found mostly on the tropical waters west coast of Africa 3–4 meters (10–13 feet) in length Belongs to the Class Mammalia Similar in size and appearance Has nails on the flippers to the West Indian manatee

9. Sirenian Species 10. Sirenian Species Not known to be territorial Part of the Sirenian order or aggressive This animal lives exclusively in Up to 3 meters (10 feet) in length inland, freshwater areas Threatened by hunting pressures Smallest member of the Family Trichechidae from native people

28 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide Classroom Activity: Public Opinion Poll

Grade Levels 7–12 Objective: The goal of this assignment is to encourage students to think about their attitude and the attitudes of others. The questions can be used to initiate group discussion on manatee and habitat protection issues. You can also tailor the questions to make them more specific to issues in your area. Assessment: For each question circle one of the ­following choices: Strongly Agree (SA), Agree (A), Undecided (U), Disagree (D) Graphic by Mary Ruth Sprankel. or Strongly Disagree (SD).

. 1 If I owned a boat, I would follow posted speed zone signs in manatee areas...... SA A U D SD 2. I think one way to help protect manatees is to increase the current fine for breaking the boating speed limit in manatee protection areas...... SA A U D SD 3. I believe funding for enforcement of speed limits on Florida waterways should be increased...... SA A U D SD 4. I think the manatee population is increasing, so there is no need to protect them...... SA A U D SD 5. If I were swimming or boating and saw manatees, I would observe them from a distance...... SA A U D SD 6. If I owned a house on the water, I think it would be okay to build a dock over a seagrass bed...... SA A U D SD 7. It is important for someone to monitor the opening and closing of flood control structures so manatees are not crushed or drowned...... SA A U D SD 8. Florida’s economy will be ruined if additional manatee protection measures are adopted...... SA A U D SD 9. In order to help protect manatees, I believe we should reduce the speed limit for boats on more of Florida’s waterways...... SA A U D SD 10. I don’t think manatees are indigeneous (native) to Florida, so it’s not important to protect them...... SA A U D SD 11. I believe the biggest threat to manatees comes from speeding boats...... SA A U D SD 12. I think the best way for people to appreciate manatees is to touch them when they are swimming or diving. It’s a way to get people interested in helping them...... SA A U D SD 13. If I owned a boat, I don’t think I would like anyone telling me how fast I should drive it...... SA A U D SD 14. More manatees are dying every year, so I believe more should be done to protect them...... SA A U D SD 15. I believe that there should be more manatee sanctuaries in Florida and those sanctuaries should be off-limits to boats and jet skis...... SA A U D SD Post Activity Discussion: Use the ­statements above to encourage each student to share his or her thoughts about manatee and habitat ­protection issues. Ask for volunteers to comment on the impacts or benefits of each statement. In addition, discuss public opinion polls and how they work. You could ask students how they think the general public would respond to the statements and why. Discuss the difference between attitudes that arise from emotion versus opinions derived from scientific fact. You might also ask how students could change their own attitudes or attitudes of others. This activity could be used a second time at the end of the unit to measure if students’ attitudes change as a result of learning about manatees and their habitat. Students can also research these issues by using material from the ­educator’s guide, the Save the Manatee Club web site at www.savethemanatee.org or other research sources. In ­addition, you might ask the students to design their own public opinion poll and survey other students in the school.

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 29 Classroom or Club Activity: Skit and Manatee Drawing Contest

Grade Levels 9–12, 3. A. Once the high school students arrive in the elementary school classroom, have them introduce working with 5th and 6th themselves, their school or club, and the objective grade students of their visit. They might bring in posters or pictures of manatees and encourage the children Objective: The goal of this activity is to foster to share their own stories of manatee encounters. stewardship of the environment, especially of the manatee, B. After a short question and answer session to foster and to spur community involvement. It offers high school interest, the high school students can then perform students an opportunity to share their compassion for, and their skit. knowledge of, manatees with elementary school students. C. To conclude the activity, the high school students Exercise Instructions: introduce their manatee drawing contest. Make 1. Have high school students write a skit or short play certain the elementary school students understand that features a manatee in some perilous situation. that each and every drawing will be posted at a The students should make or bring in costumes for booth at an environmental event, such as Earth Day, the characters in their play. Examples of characters: a or at an upcoming festival, or in their school. Have speedboat, a manatee mother, her calf, a concerned the high school students make or purchase prizes human being, etc. A narrator could also be employed to be awarded to the elementary school students. to set the scene and direct the action. The plot could Examples are manatee plush toys, manatee posters, include some conflict or danger that the manatee or other manatee-themed items. Finally, have the must avoid, and could also include a happy resolution high school students set a date for the submission to send a positive message. For a second part of of the drawings and arrange for their pickup from the project, another group of high school students the school. should produce a list of questions about manatees, 4. After the drawings are submitted, the high school their habitat, perils, the importance of manatee students should convene to judge the drawings. Then, conservation, and how each student can help. These they should arrange for a booth rental at an upcoming questions will serve as an informal introduction to event. The students should post the drawings at the skit and, therefore, should be targeted toward an their booth for visitors to see and clearly identify elementary audience. the first, second, and third place winners. After the 2. Contact an elementary school in the area and arrange event, have the high school students set up a visit to to have the skit performed in one or two classrooms. the elementary school to return the drawings to the Either 5th or 6th grade classes are suggested as contestants and award prizes to the winners. As an appropriate target audiences for this project. alternative to renting a booth at an upcoming event, the winners’ drawings can be posted in the elementary school, and prizes can be awarded on site. 30 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide Manatee Pre/Post Test

True or False 1. Manatees live in salt, brackish or fresh water. a. True b. False 2. The Steller’s sea cow population is increasing. a. True b. False Graphic by Mary Ruth Sprankel. 3. Manatees tend to travel in groups. a. True b. False Objective: Test your knowledge 6. Manatees may look alike to us, 4. The federal Environmental about manatees. The first 10 but researchers have a unique Protection Agency (EPA) ­questions are fill-in-the-blank and way of telling them apart. ­coordinates the Florida Manatee multiple choice questions and the How do they do it? Recovery Plan, a list of tasks second half of the test features ______geared toward recovering true and false questions. After ______­manatees from their current ­completing the manatee unit in 7. Florida manatees are a migratory endangered status. your class, take the test again and species. In the winter months, a. True b. False see how much you learned! they are found primarily in 1. On average, manatees eat ______. 5. Manatees are native to Florida. about ______% of their In the summer months, they a. True b. False body weight in vegetation daily. are more widely dispersed 6. Manatees breathe underwater 2. Manatees have few natural and may go as far north as through gills on the sides of enemies and it is believed ______their necks. that they can live up to and as far west as ______years. ______. a. True b. False 3. Manatees are the only aquatic 8. Manatees have a low repro­ 7. Manatees prefer shallow, mammals that are ductive rate. It is believed that slow-moving bodies of water. ______. one calf is born every ______a. True b. False year(s) and a calf may remain 4. Manatees are slow-moving 8. Fish and algae make up the dependent on its mother for up ­animals, although they have majority of a manatee’s diet. been known to swim up to to ______years. a. True b. False ______mph in short bursts. 9. Manatees communicate with On average, manatees swim at each other underwater by 9. Female manatees are very about ______mph. ______­aggressive when they have 5. Data from research have shown ______a calf by their side. that many manatee mortalities 10. The West Indian manatee is a. True b. False are directly related to human ­protected under: 10. Manatees are scientifically contact or encroachment. a. federal law ­classified in het Phylum List three human-related causes b. state law Chordata, which means they of manatee mortality. c. both federal and state law have a backbone. ______d. the manatee is not protected a. True b. False ______under law ______(See Answer Key on page 33.)

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 31 Habitat Pre/Post Test

Graphic by Mary Ruth Sprankel.

Objective: This will test your 4. Manatees are ­herbivores, but 8. Seagrass beds are an important knowledge about manatee ­habitat they probably wouldn’t eat feeding area for manatees. Which and habitat for sirenians around which of the following plants? of the following is a cause of the world. There are ten multiple­ A. Hydrilla seagrass bed destruction? choice questions. B. Douglas fir tree A. Surface water run-off B. Herbicide spraying 1. Habitats where manatees are C. Tapegrass found must provide them with D. Water lettuce C. Prop dredging which of the ­following: D. All of the above 5. Although Florida manatees are A. A breeding area migratory, they do not migrate 9. In which area would you most B. Sheltered living to which of these places? likely find manatees during C. Food supply A. Florida ­colder weather? D. All of the above B. Louisiana A. Under icebergs B. In power plant outflows 2. The four necessary elements C. North Carolina of manatee habitat are: D. Montana C. Resting on the beach D. 5–10 miles out at sea A. Food, water, space, shelter 6. What sirenian is found around B. Water, shelter, sky, trees the northern part of Australia? 10. Even though the Florida manatee C. Fish, sun, metal, water A. Amazonian manatee and Antillean manatee are closely D. Rain, food, stars, space B. Steller’s sea cow related, they do not share the same geographic ­locations. The C. Dugong 3. Manatees are susceptible to Antillean ­manatee can be found cold-related disease. The lower D. West Indian manatee in which of the f­ollowing places: end range of water temperatures 7. What animal would you most A. Central American waterways they can tolerate is: likely find sharing its home with B. Indian Ocean A. 7º to 13º C (45º to 55º F) a manatee? C. Bering Sea B. 31º to 33º C (88º to 92º F) A. Snowy owl D. Lake Erie C. 20º to 22º C (68º to 72º F) B. Grizzly bear (See Answer Key on page 33.) D. –23º to –29º C C. Gray wolf (–10º to –20º F) D. Turtle

32 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide Answer Keys

Manatee Pre/Post Test (located on page 31) Answer Key

Fill-in-the-Blank 1. 10–15% 2. 60 years 3. Herbivores 4. 20 mph, 3–5 mph 5. Litter, flood gate/canal lock structures, watercraft collisions 6. From their unique, distinctive scars 7. Florida, Massachusetts, Texas

Graphic by Mary Ruth Sprankel. 8. two–five, two 9. Chirps, whistles or squeaks Habitat Pre/Post Test Manatee Word Scramble 10. C – Both federal and state law (located on page 32) (located on page 26) Answer Key Answer Key True or False 1. D Cixto — Toxic 1. True. 2. A Mslamam — Mammals 2. False. The Steller’s sea cow 3. C Tysmescoe — Ecosystem is extinct. Gudnog — Dugong 4. B 3. False. Manatees are semi-social, Vireobrhe — Herbivore somewhat solitary animals. 5. D Apdroetr — Predator 6. C 4. False. The Florida Manatee Enasirni — Sirenian Recovery Plan is coordinated 7. D Cfruaes rawet — Surface water by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife 8. D Literretras — Terrestrial Service. 9. B Sleatwnd — Wetlands 5. True. Bathiat — Habitat 10. A 6. False. Manatees are mammals Gydorhlcio lycec — Hydrologic cycle and must surface to breathe air. Diel depes — Idle speed 7. True. Bricksha — Brackish Aitcuaq — Aquatic 8. False. Manatees are herbivores. Spyrecno — Necropsy 9. False. Manatees are passive Minear — Marine ­animals. Nolago — Lagoon 10. True. Oxtice piesces — Exotic species Greeddanen — Endangered

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 33 Glossary

AQUATIC — growing or living GROUNDWATER — water below the SALT MARSH — an area vege­tated in the water. surface of the ground, often deep below. by salt-tolerant plants subject to periodic AQUIFER — an underground bed or HABITAT — the three-dimensional tidal inundation by salt water. layer of permeable rock, sand or gravel space a species inhabits that includes SALT WATER INTRUSION — containing water. all the features needed for survival. the invasion of salt water into a body of BAY — an inlet of the sea or other HARASSMENT — persistent fresh water, occurring in either surface body of water, usually smaller than bothering or annoying of an animal, so or groundwater bodies. a gulf. as to change its natural behavior. SANCTUARY — a place of refuge BRACKISH (WATER) — a ­mixture HERBIVORE — an animal that feeds or protection. of fresh and salt water. on plants. SIRENIA — the taxonomic order to CARNIVORE — a flesh-eating ­animal HYDROLOGIC CYCLE — the which manatees and dugongs belong. or plant. ­circulation of water in a cycle where SLOW SPEED — the speed at which CONSERVATION — the care, ­­ water evaporates from the ocean and a boat is operating off-plane and settled pro­tection or management of natural land and returns to the Earth as precipi­ into the water. resources. tation. This water then flows over the SPRING — a place where water DREDGE AND FILL — dredging is a surface, through the ground, or is used seeps or bubbles from the ground. method for deepening streams, swamps, by plants before evaporating or tran­ SURFACE WATER — water on or coastal waters by excavating solids spiring and starting the cycle again. the surface of the ground, such as from the bottom. Fill is a term used for IDLE SPEED — minimum speed that lakes, rivers, puddles and the water filling in wetlands. will maintain the steerage of a vessel. in the topsoil. DUGONG — a sirenian that is LAGOON — a shallow, marine water SURFACE WATER RUNOFF — entirely marine. Dugongs have forked body separated from the sea by sand the portion of rainfall or irrigation water tails, and tusks are found in males. bars or a barrier island. that eventually is returned to bodies ECOSYSTEM — the interacting MAMMALS — animals that breathe of water. ­system of a biological community and air, nurse their young, have backbones, TAXONOMY — a system of ar­ ranging its non-living environment. are warm blooded and have body hair animals and plants into natur­ al, related EFFLUENT — a discharge of water, at some stage of their development. groups based on ­factors common to which may contain pollutants, into the MANATEE PROTECTION AREA — each other. environment. any area with regulations aimed at TERRESTRIAL — living on land rather ENDANGERED — said of any species ­protecting manatees. than in water. of wildlife whose prospect MARINE — inhabiting the sea. THREATENED — said of any species of survival is in jeopardy; in danger METABOLISM — the chemical and of wildlife that may not be in immediate of extinction due to natural or physical processes continuously going danger of extinction but exists in such human-made factors. on in living organisms and cells. small populations that it may become ENVIRONMENT — all the NECROPSY — a postmortem endangered if subjected to increased ­conditions, circumstances and ­examination performed on an animal. stress from changes in its environment. ­influences­ surrounding and affecting NICTITATING MEMBRANE — TOXIC — acting as a poison; the development­ of an organism or a thin membrane found in many ­animals poisonous. group of organisms. beneath the lower eyelid that extends VANDALISM — destruction ESTUARY — an area where fresh across the eyeball. of public or private property, ­including water meets and mixes with salt water. OMNIVORE — an animal that eats the deliberate harming of a manatee, EVOLUTION — the development of both plants and other animals. other wild creature or natural resource. a species, from its original or primitive PREDATOR — an animal that obtains VULNERABLE — an international ancestor to its present, ­specialized state. food primarily by killing and consuming designation similar to the United States EXOTIC SPECIES — plants or animals. desig­nation of “threatened.” animals that are not native to an area; PREY — an animal killed by a predator WETLANDS — land where water introduced from another place. as food. is the dominant factor determining the EXTINCT — said of a plant or animal REHABILITATION — bringing nature of soil and the types of plant and species that no longer exists. or restoring to a normal or optimal state animal communities living in the soil or GESTATION PERIOD — the period of health by medical treatment. on its surface. of time between conception and birth. RIVER — a natural stream of water of considerable volume.

34 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide References

Bolen, M.E. 1998. Age determination of the Florida manatees, Trichechus manatus latirostris, killed by the 1996 red tide epizootic in southwestern Florida. Abstract from the proceedings of the World Marine Mammal Conference.

Bolen, M.E., et. al. 1999. A comparison of techniques used ­in determining ages of the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris). Abstract from the pr­ oceedings of the 13th Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals.

Bullock, T.H., T.J. O’Shea and M.C. McClune. 1982. Auditory evoked potentials in the West Indian ­manatee (Sirenia: Trichechus ­manatus). Journal of Comparative Physiology 148:547-544.

Domning, D.P. and L.C. Hayek, 1986. Interspecific and intraspecific morphological variation in manatees (Sirenia: Trichechus). Marine Mammal Science 2(2): 87-144.

Garcia-Rodriguez, A.I., B.W. Bowen, D.P. Domning, A.A. Mignucci-Giannoni, M. Marmontel, R.A. Montoya-Ospina, B. Morales-Vela, M. Rudin, R.K. Bonde, and P.M. McGuire. 1998. Phylogeography of the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus): How many populations and how many taxa? Molecular Ecology 7:1137-1149.

Kolankiewicz, L. and R. Beck. 2001. Weighing sprawl factors in large U.S. cities: A report on the nearly equal roles played by population growth and land use choices in the loss of farmland and natural habitat to urbanization. Analysis of U.S. Bureau of the Census Data on the 100 Largest Urbanized Areas of the United States. Arlington, VA: NumbersUSA.com

Lefebvre, L.W. and R.K. Frohlich. 1986. Movements of radio-tagged manatees in southwest Florida, January 1985– March 1986. Unpublished interim report. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Florida Department of Natural Resources. 86 pp.

Manatee Salvage Database, January 1974–July 1986. USGS, Biological Resources Division, Sirenia Project; July 1986–2000, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida Marine Research Institute.

Pabst, D.A. Rommel, S.A., and McLellan, W.A. 1999. Pp. 15-72, IN: J.E. Reynolds III and S.A. Rommel (eds.), Biology of Marine Mammals. Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington, DC.

Reynolds, J.E. 1981. Behavior ­patterns in the West Indian manatee, with emphasis on feeding and diving. Florida Scientist 44(4):233-242.

Reynolds, J.E., III, and D.K. Odell. 1991. Manatees and Dugongs. Facts on File, Inc. New York, NY.

Rommel, S. and J.E. Reynolds. 2000. Diaphragm structure and function in the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris). The Anatomical Record 259:41-51.

Manatees – An Educator’s Guide 35 Notes

36 Manatees – An Educator’s Guide Manatee FAQ

Q. When will manatees be taken A. There is no specific number The manatees in Florida today off the endangered species list? established that will result in have every right to be considered A. The Florida Manatee Recovery the delisting of manatees as Florida natives. Plan was developed as a an endangered species. Q. Are power plants bad requirement of the Endangered In addition, not enough is for ­ manatees? Species Act of 1973 (ESA) and known yet about Florida manatee A. Although power plants have is coor­dinated by the U.S. Fish population trends to say if the acted as attractants to manatees and Wildlife Service (USFWS). manatee population is increasing, who use the plant effluents as The recovery plan must present decreasing or stable. In two winter warm water refugia, the objective and measurable regional subpopulations there effluents are critically important recovery criteria and site-specific is evidence that the numbers are to manatees during cold spells. ­management actions to minimize increasing, but these two areas Manatees are sus­ceptible to or remove threats to the Florida combined make up only about cold stress and cold-related ­ manatee. The USFWS must, to 16% of the total Florida manatee diseases and can die when ­ the maximum extent practicable, population. In the remaining ambient water ­temperatures incorporate into each recovery two regional subpopulations, drop below 20º C (68º F). plan objective measurable criteria which comprise 84% of the which, when met, would result state’s manatee population, As coastal development pressures in a determination that the the data available are not yet in southeast and southwest species be removed from the list sufficient to reliably estimate Florida have pushed manatees of endangered and threatened the population trends. further north, power plant ­ species. In designating these effluents have played a critical Q. Are manatees indigenous role in manatee protection. criteria, the USFWS must address (native) to Florida? the five statutory listing/recovery Q. How can you tell a female factors and measure whether A. According to sirenian paleon­ from a male manatee? threats to the species have been tologist Daryl P. Domning, fossil remains of sirenian ancestors A. If you look at the underside of ameliorated or improved. The a manatee, referencing from five listing recovery factors are: show they have inhabited Florida for about 45 million years. Modern the head to the tail, the genital 1. The present or threatened manatees have been in Florida for opening in the male manatee is destruction, modification over one million years (probably just below the umbilicus (belly or curtailment of a species’ with intermittent absences during button), and the female’s genital habitat or range. the Ice Ages); i.e., a lot longer opening is just above the anus. 2. Overutilization for commercial, ­ than people have lived here. The Q. Are manatees ever attacked recreational, scientific or present Florida manatee (Trichechus by sharks? ­educational purposes. manatus latirostris) is a sub­ A. Manatees are not usually hunted 3. Disease or predation. species endemic or common to by sharks because they generally Florida. Genetic studies to date don’t share the same habitat. 4. The inadequacy of existing indicate that it is not derived ­regulatory mechanisms. Larger-sized species of sharks are from the populations in Mexico generally found offshore in deeper 5. Other natural or man-made or Central America, but more waters. The smaller shark species ­factors affecting its continued likely colonized Florida from the that may inhabit lagoons and existence. Greater Antilles thousands of shallo­ wer waters probably would Q. When will there be enough years ago after the last Ice Age. not attack manatees because manatees to be considered However, there is no evidence they are too big. Alligators do “recovered,” according to that manatees are now entering not usually attack manatees for the ESA? Florida from Central America, the same reason. the Caribbean or any­where else. A manatee fitted with a radio transmitter is released by U.S. Geological Survey biologists.

A researcher records data in the winter at a manatee aggregation (gathering) site near one of Florida’s power plants.

Photo by Bob Bonde, U.S. Geological Survey, Southeast Ecological Science Center, Sirenia Project

Photo © Robert Rattner

Students demonstrate the best way to view manatees in the wild – from a ­ distance. Enjoy manatees, but please don’t touch, feed or give them water.

500 N. MAITLAND AVE. • MAITLAND, FL 32751 1-800-432-JOIN (5646)

www.savethemanatee.org Photo © Robert Rattner