Manatees in Florida apparently breed year rounds with most calves born in the spring and summer months. A cow gives birth about once every three years. Births of twins may occur but are extremely rare. A manatee calf measure about 4 to 4.5 feet and weights approximately 60 to 70 pounds. The newborn calf is capable of swimming to the surface on its own.
Calves vocalize at or soon after birth.
This is an important part of the mother-calf bonding process. The calf begins to nurse within a few hours after birth by suckling from a teat under the pectoral flippers. Calves nurse underwater. Calves begin nibbling on plants within a few weeks of birth. Although it may be weaned by the end of its first year, the calf remains close to its mother for up to two years.