Where Do Manatees Go During a Hurricane?
At Get Up And Go Kayaking Silver Springs, we’re lucky to share Florida’s waters with one of nature’s most iconic and gentle creatures: the manatee. As we approach manatee season, which runs from November 15 to March 31 in Florida, guests often ask how these large, slow-moving animals handle the extreme weather of hurricane season. Let’s explore how manatees stay safe during storms and where they find refuge from hurricane conditions.
How Hurricanes Impact Manatee Habitat in Florida
Manatees frequent Florida’s rivers and springs, including Silver Springs, seeking calm, warm waters where they can graze peacefully. But with hurricanes come powerful winds, rains, and surges that alter their usual environment. Despite their slow and gentle nature, manatees are remarkably resilient and have developed ways to stay safe when the weather takes a turn.
Where Manatees Go to Stay Safe During a Hurricane
When a hurricane approaches, manatees sense the pressure changes and instinctively seek safer environments. Here’s where they go and why these places provide vital protection:
- Silver Springs and Other Natural Springs
Springs like Silver Springs are a top choice for manatees during extreme weather because their temperatures remain stable and waters calm, even when surrounding areas are impacted by the storm. These springs provide a sanctuary for manatees to ride out hurricanes in relative peace.
- Deeper Channels and Coastal Estuaries
Manatees will also move toward deeper water areas like channels and estuaries, where the waters are more stable and shielded from the storm’s immediate effects. These natural buffers offer them a place to avoid debris and the turbulence found in shallower waters
- Mangrove Shores and Coastal Inlets
Mangroves and coastal inlets provide excellent natural protection. The complex root structures of mangroves slow down incoming waves and offer calm spots where manatees can stay protected from high winds and heavy rains.
Manatee Adaptations for Surviving Storms
Manatees have some physical traits and behaviors that help them navigate and survive extreme weather:
– Extended Breath-Holding Ability
Manatees can hold their breath for up to 20 minutes, which allows them to stay underwater longer, avoiding the storm’s impact on the surface.
– Habitat Flexibility
Since manatees can tolerate both fresh and saltwater environments, they have greater flexibility to seek out a variety of safe spaces during hurricanes. This adaptability is a significant asset, especially in areas like Silver Springs, where freshwater habitats offer crucial protection.
The Role of Protected Habitats in Manatee Safety
Protected areas like Silver Springs are critical for manatee survival. These habitats not only support manatees year-round but provide essential shelter during hurricane season. By visiting and supporting eco-conscious activities, you’re contributing to conservation efforts that ensure these gentle giants have safe places to wait out storms.
Manatee Season: The Best Time to Spot Manatees in Florida
From November 15 to March 31, manatees migrate to Florida’s warmer waters for the winter season. This is the ideal time to see manatees at Silver Springs, where they gather for the season. During this period, we invite you to join us at Get Up And Go Kayaking Silver Springs for an unforgettable kayaking tour. You’ll get to experience the wonder of seeing manatees up close while learning more about how these incredible animals adapt to their surroundings, even under challenging conditions.
Tips for Eco-Friendly Manatee Viewing
If you’re planning to visit during manatee season, remember these key tips:
– Respect Their Space: While we encourage everyone to enjoy seeing manatees up close, it’s essential to maintain a respectful distance.
– Support Conservation: By choosing eco-friendly tours like Get Up And Go Kayaking Silver Springs, you’re directly supporting manatee habitat preservation.
– Share Awareness: Tell others about the importance of Florida’s natural springs, rivers, and coastal areas for manatee conservation.
Book Your Tour for Manatee Season with Get Up And Go Kayaking Silver Springs
Manatees are gentle, resilient creatures with a remarkable ability to adapt and find safety during hurricanes. Join us at Get Up And Go Kayaking Silver Springs during Florida’s manatee season to experience their natural beauty and learn how they’ve adapted to the wild waters of Florida. Whether it’s hurricane season or the winter migration, our team is here to guide you through this unforgettable experience
Book Your Silver Springs Tour
Did you see this?!
In case you missed our recent Instagram post (@getupandgosilversprings) that got over 5 MILLION views talking about this – take a look at the link below!
View this post on Instagram