🐋 Why You Should Never Feed or Give Water to Manatees

🐋 Why You Should Never Feed or Give Water to Manatees

And What It Could Cost You

🚫 It’s Illegal – and Harmful to Manatees

Feeding or giving water to manatees is prohibited by federal and Florida law under the:

· Marine Mammal Protection Act

· Endangered Species Act

· Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act

🧍‍♂️ Why It’s a Problem

Manatees are naturally shy and slow-moving. When people feed or give them fresh water:

· 🧭 They lose their fear of humans and boats, putting them at greater risk of injury or death from propellers.

· 🚤 They begin approaching docks and marinas, leading to collisions or entanglement in fishing gear.

· 🐾 It disrupts their natural behavior, including feeding and migration patterns.

· ❌ It encourages dependency, which is dangerous during cold snaps or red tide events when manatees must relocate.

💸 Fines and Legal Consequences

If you’re caught feeding, giving water, or attempting to touch a manatee, you may face:

· Fines up to $100,000

· Up to 1 year in prison under federal law

· Additional penalties under Florida state law

✅ What You Should Do Instead

· Observe from a distance — use binoculars or zoom lenses.

· Report distressed or injured manatees to the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline: 📞 1-888-404-FWCC (3922)

· Educate others about the dangers of interfering with wild manatees.