Fossils have been found in southern France, Africa, the United Arab Emirates, the South Pacific, Australia, the Caribbean, South America, and many other locations throughout the world. Tragically, the Steller's Sea Cow, which was first scientifically documented in 1741, had been hunted to extinction by 1768. Only the Dugong remains, and it, like the other manatee species, is in extreme peril.
Manatees are marine mammals.
While the Florida manatees do form loose groupings during the winter months when they seek the protection of warm water springs and discharge pools at power plants, they are basically solitary animals when roaming the coastal regions. The only apparent bondings are between the calves and mothers who remain together for up to two years. As I swam with these ancient and magnificent creatures near Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River, Florida, I marveled at their grace and gentleness. It was amazing to see them walk across the sandy bottom using only their nailed front flippers which seemed small in comparison to their massive bodies. Their great paddle-shaped tails slowly pushed them through the water when they swam.