Florida manatees are large marine mammals that live in rivers, bays, canals, and coastal waters. Their bodies are gray or brown, and they have wide tails shaped like paddles. Even though manatees can grow longer than a sofa and weigh more than a small car, they usually move slowly and gently.

Manatees spend much of the day eating seagrass and other water plants. An adult may eat dozens of pounds of plants in one day. Because they are mammals, manatees must come to the surface for air. They can stay underwater for several minutes, but they still need to breathe regularly.

In winter, Florida manatees often gather in warm-water places such as natural springs or waters near power plants. If the water becomes too cold, manatees can get sick. That is one reason Florida's springs are important to them.

Manatees face other dangers too. Boats can injure them, especially when propellers strike their backs. Many manatees have white scars from these accidents. Pollution and the loss of seagrass beds can also hurt manatees by damaging their habitat and food supply.

People in Florida work to protect manatees in several ways. Some areas have slow-speed zones for boats. Rescue teams help sick or injured manatees. Scientists study where manatees travel and what conditions they need to live well. Visitors can help too by following posted rules and giving manatees space.

Because of these efforts, more people understand how to share waterways with these peaceful animals. Seeing a manatee lift its whiskered nose above the water is a special reminder that careful choices can protect wildlife close to home.