10/26/2021
It’s that time of year again!❄️
We may not get any snow here, in Citrus County, but the temperature is steadily dropping.
Instead, the seasonal anomaly that we receive are Manatees.
Beginning in mid-November, these sea cows will begin to spend time in our bays, rivers, and freshwater springs to be comfortable during the winter months. This also means that these mammals will be making their way through our home towns canals, so keep an eye out!
Manatees are protected under the Endangered Species Act, though being taken off of the list in 2017, they are now considered “threatened”, with motor boats being their largest threat. (Alongside harmful algal blooms and marine debris) Citrus County is progressively trying to protect this species by regulating and patrolling no-wake zones. The county, Swiftmud and many local volunteers also work together in removing toxic algae, called Lyngbya, from our waterways in an effort to save them as well.
Three Sisters Springs, Hunter Springs and Kings Bay are where manatees prefer to spend their time. They enjoy hanging out in the year-round 72-degree water that our springs provide them. Three Sisters Springs inhabiting over 300 manatees at once in 2019. This makes Crystal River the #1 location in Florida to get a sighting of one of these magnificent creatures. With a plethora of businesses to choose from, it is highly recommended that those visiting take a manatee tour to encounter the full Nature Coast experience. Citrus County also has multiple places to rent a kayak or paddleboard, but BE CAREFUL, FWC has strict guidelines on how to approach a manatee if not on a guided tour.
Do not miss out on the experience of a lifetime and take advantage of this cool weather to check out Citrus County’s non-official Mascot, The West Indian Manatee.
❗️ FUN FACT ❗️ Despite the manatee’s chunky appearance, they can swim at speeds up to 20 mph and hold their breath between 15-20 minutes!
