It is estimated only approximately 2,500 manatees exist in the wild and 1998 was the third deadliest year on record for manatees according to the figures released by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. In an effort to save the manatee, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service has established the manatee rescue-rehabilitation program in which injured or orphaned manatees are cared for by selected zoos and aquariums, and if possible released back into the wild. A 190,000 gallon pool simulates a mangrove waterway amid islands. Within the exhibit, a glass window offers a glimpse at the manatees' underwater world. Signage and interactive displays offer answers to frequently asked questions about manatees and their habitat.
Manatees are herbivorous animals and spend six to eight hours a day eating.
Their large diets consisting of vegetation will make the manatees the most costly animals at the Zoo to feed. Manatees grow to be an average of 10 feet long and weigh an average of 1,000 pounds.