manatee deaths

The lack of seagrass forage during winter months has triggered an unprecedented die-off of manatees.

The groups say more than half of the manatee deaths were related to starvation in the Indian River Lagoon.

During an appearance at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, the governor expressed support for budget items aimed at helping manatees.

State and federal wildlife officials are working together to address the unusual die-off of manatees. Already this year more than 440 have died. That's high, but not as bad as in 2021.

Wildlife agencies say they are winding down a program to provide supplemental lettuce for starving manatees in the Indian River Lagoon.

The manatees’ plight is straining the aquariums and zoos that have joined to rehabilitate ones that have been rescued.

Florida lawmakers included $27 million for manatees in the state budget this session. Environmentalists say more is needed.

Feeding lettuce to manatees might be necessary again next winter because of the dwindling amount of seagrass in the lagoon.

MRC: Last year we lost about 20 manatees a week. This year the death rate is about 40 manatees a week

The annual report card is based on data collected by the water management districts in 2020.

The centers are working together to create more space to treat the manatees.