The rushing sound of a deep exhale and breath sound much like a snorkeler. Manatees are found in coastal waterways, estuaries, saltwater bays, rivers and canals, particularly where seagrass beds are located. In captivity they are fed lettuce and other greens, and given elephant vitamins. Females mature around 5 to 9 years of age, and males not until 6 to 9 years of age. It is believed that one calf is born every 2 to 5 years.
Twins are rare in the wild.
Gestation period is around 13 months. Newborns weigh approximately 40 pounds at birth and stay with the mother for several years.