Manatee

About

How manatee lives

Manatees are slow-moving aquatic mammals that graze on seagrass and freshwater plants in warm waters. Manatees surface often to breathe but can rest underwater for several minutes. River species are shaped by changing water levels, flowing currents, and narrow migration paths.

Conservation

Status and habitat pressure

Vulnerable species face mounting risks and can decline quickly if habitats continue to shrink. Protecting manatee also depends on keeping rivers, coast habitats healthy and connected.

Vulnerable species can decline quickly when habitat loss, climate pressure, or human conflict intensifies.

Quick Facts

Things to notice

• Manatees surface often to breathe but can rest underwater for several minutes.
• Mammals often invest heavily in parenting, which shapes social behavior and learning.
• River species are shaped by changing water levels, flowing currents, and narrow migration paths.
• Vulnerable species face mounting risks and can decline quickly if habitats continue to shrink.