Fun Facts About Manatees at Weeki Wachee Springs:

    1    Gentle Giants: Manatees are often called "sea cows" because of their slow, grazing behavior and gentle nature. They can weigh up to 1,200 pounds and reach lengths of up to 13 feet.

    2    Warm-Water Lovers: Manatees prefer warm water and often migrate to springs like Weeki Wachee during the cooler months because the spring maintains a constant temperature of around 72°F (22°C) year-round.

    3    Herbivorous Diet: These aquatic mammals are herbivores and feed on a variety of submerged, floating, and emergent plants. They can consume about 10% of their body weight in vegetation daily!

    4    Slow Swimmers: Manatees typically swim at speeds of about 3 to 5 miles per hour but can burst up to 15 miles per hour in short spurts if necessary.

    5    Breathing Habits: Manatees surface for air about every three to five minutes, but they can stay submerged for up to 20 minutes when resting.

Manatees in Weeki Wachee Springs, FL

Why did the manatee go to the spa?

Because it needed some "manatee-time" to relax and unwind!