Also known as an “ocean potato” or “sea cow”,  the beloved Florida manatee is a gentle giant you’ll see calmly cruising throughout Jupiter Intracoastal waters. Manatees have a very friendly disposition, and while it may be tempting to feed or give them fresh water from your dock, it is illegal as they are a protected species.

Manatees are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978. It is illegal to feed, harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, annoy, or molest manatees. For more information about state laws, please visit https://myfwc.com/conservation/you-conserve/wildlife/manatee/.

On the other hand, it’s wonderful to experience these calm creatures nearby. Here are some interesting manatee facts!

REPORT MANATEE HARASSMENT

Report harassment by calling 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922). Cellular phone users can also call *FWC or #FWC, or send a text to [email protected].