Swimming Manatee

By Geology and Ecology of National Parks 2022 (approx.)

Shown is a large marine mammal called the West Indian Manatee. With adults typically being 9-10 feet long and weighing around 1000 pounds, they can consume up to 9% of their body weight in seagrass. Slow moving, the pictured manatee has scars on its back due to being struck by boat propellers.

Detailed Description

The West Indian Manatee, also known as a sea cow, is large marine mammal which graze upon aquatic plants. Often times you can distinguish between different manatees based upon their distinct scars from boat collisions upon their backs. Photo courtesy of Jason Rosales.

Sources/Usage

Photo courtesy of Jason Rosales.