The Behavior of Manatees

The migratory manatee belongs to the Trichechidae family. Manatees spend much of their day sleeping, eating and traveling. With a large body somewhat resembling a cow, the manatee features a trunk-like feeding structure and a flat, paddle-shaped tail.

  1. Movement

    • The gentle manatee moves slowly at a speed of three to five miles per hour, yet can speed up to 20 miles per hour in short bursts. This mammal surfaces to breathe with its nostrils every few minutes, then rests or hovers just under the water surface.

    Communication

    • Manatees can hear distant sounds. Vibrations in water alert them to avoid enemies. Vocalizations include squeaks, whistles and chirps.

    Diet

    • The herbivorous manatee forages for food along coastal areas and can consume up to 10 to 15 percent of its body weight in vegetation. A freshwater diet includes tapegrass, water hyacinth and water lettuce. A marine diet includes manatee grass, shoal grass, turtle grass and widgeon grass.

    Water

    • The manatee prefers warm water springs with a temperature ranging from 68 to 72 Fahrenheit. Habitat includes canals, coastal regions, estuaries and shallow or slow-moving rivers. Without a protective layer of fat, they avoid cold, deep water.

    Hierarchy

    • Usually a solitary mammal, the manatee sometimes forms a very small group temporarily. Mothers share a close relationship with their calves and nurse them for one to 1 1/2 years. Sometimes manatees play "follow the leader," body surf or barrel roll.