In the winter, generally November through March, manatees congregate at warm water sources, primarily in Florida, such as natural springs or warm water effluents of power plants. Manatee intake of freshwater occurs while eating aquatic plants as well as drinking. Research suggests that manatees in saltwater do not need to drink freshwater for extended periods. This may explain why manatees can go so easily from fresh to saltwater environments. It also means that people do not need to give manatees water from hoses.
Manatees can take of their own freshwater needs.
Nancy Sadusky Communications Director Save the Manatee Club 500 N. Maitland Ave. Copyright 2001 Journey North. All Rights Reserved.