West Indian Manatee
Trichechus manatus
- Where
- Southeastern United States and Caribbean
- Habitat
- Freshwater rivers, estuaries, and shallow coastal waters
- Diet
- Seagrasses, aquatic plants, and algae
- Size
- 10-13 feet long, up to 1,300 pounds
- Lifespan
- 50-60 years in the wild
- Conservation
- Vulnerable due to habitat loss and boat collisions
Fun Facts
- Manatees can hold their breath for 20 minutes!
- They have no natural predators in the wild.
- Manatees are related to elephants!
Learn More
Large, paddle-shaped tail
Flippers instead of legs
Thick skin that's almost 2 inches thick