03/29/2023
I’m thinking of an animal that enjoys relaxing in the water, is pretty hefty, and loves to eat! Can you guess what is it❓❓❓
If you guessed Minnie, you’d be pretty close! I’m actually talking about another gentle giant: the manatee🌊
Today is Manatee Appreciation Day - a day to recognize their ecological significance and admire their adorable faces!
Manatees are slow-moving, peaceful herbivores that prevent an overgrowth of vegetation in the ocean and can keep invasive species at bay. They also fertilize sea grasses that are an important part of the ecosystem. 🌱
Unfortunately, with the looming threats of red tide in Florida, the already vulnerable species is expected to face more challenges. The Florida Manatee needs our help now!
There are simple things you can do: participate in beach cleanups, don’t use fertilizer, dispose of finishing line properly, drive your boat at specified speed limits, and report any sitings of manatees in distress. If you’d like to do more, you can always volunteer or donate to manatee rescue organizations ❤️
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