B. Food intake. During the dry season the water level drops as much as 30 to 50 ft. C. Methods of feeding. Manatees feed off the bottom, in the water column, and at the surface. They have even been known to crop overhanging branches, consume acorns, and haul themselves partially out of the water to eat bank vegetation.
Manatees use their front flippers and large, flexible lips to manipulate vegetation.
Behind these pads, molars grind the food. D. Fresh water. Both the West Indian and West African manatees may require a source of fresh water for drinking. Manatees have been seen drinking fresh water from hoses, sewage outfalls, culverts, and other fresh water sources and also congregating at river mouths. Most scientists agree that manatees must periodically have access to fresh water.