Manatees occupy a wide variety of estuarine and freshwater habitats in Florida and Georgia.
Analyses of diet can supplement field observations that help to identify important areas of habitat requiring protection, and the relative importance and extent to which manatees utilize available resources. Carcass retrieval is substantial and adequate numbers of stomach samples from carcasses are available for examination. Samples for analysis will be selected on the basis of geographic location and availability of appropriate sample sizes. Examination of fecal samples and stomach contents is ongoing. Information on habitat requirements of Florida manatees is needed by federal and state managers responsible for protecting and recovering this endangered marine mammal.