According to Marina Doshkov, the marine mammal stranding coordinator for Jennette’s Pier, there are several things people can do to keep these out-of-town guests safe during their visits.
“First off, practice passive observation,” she said. “Observe from a distance and from above the water. Avoid touching, feeding or giving water to manatees.”
It’s also important to be mindful of noise and splashing. "Manatees may be resting and loud noises could startle them," Doshkov added.
“And please don't block their paths,” she added. “Avoid chasing or blocking manatees as they travel.”
Wearing polarized sunglasses makes it easier to spot manatees. In addition, look for “footprints” on the water’s surface made by manatee tails or their nostrils as they surface.
Doshkov also asks boaters to do their part too. “Slow down, especially in marinas,” she said. “Reducing speed gives you a greater chance to avoid manatees and for them to avoid your vessel.”
