There are 25,900 recorded sightings of Manatee in Florida, with 598 observations documented in the past 12 months. Local sightings are most frequently reported in December through March.
When to See Manatee in Florida
Most often reported in December through March.
| Month | Recorded Sightings | Peak Month |
|---|---|---|
| January | 8,930 | Yes |
| February | 5,812 | Yes |
| March | 2,414 | Yes |
| April | 1,162 | No |
| May | 1,063 | No |
| June | 1,027 | No |
| July | 923 | No |
| August | 794 | No |
| September | 0 | No |
| October | 0 | No |
| November | 892 | No |
| December | 1,382 | Yes |
Compared With Other Regions
Explore how Manatee sightings in Florida compare to other North American hubs:
A large, grey, rounded aquatic mammal with a paddle-like tail and whiskered face, this manatee is native to warm coastal areas of the Caribbean, from the Eastern United States to northern South America. It lives in rivers, estuaries and shallow bays, grazing on seagrass. Look for the nose breaking the surface to breathe, and visit warm springs in winter when manatees gather.
Other Wildlife to Look for in Florida
Track Manatee in Florida
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see a Manatee in Florida?
Manatee is most often reported in Florida in December through March, based on GBIF records. Reports partly reflect when more people are outdoors, so sightings in other months are possible.
Where can I see a Manatee in Florida?
There are 25,900 documented Manatee records in Florida. Parks, refuges and protected areas with suitable habitat are the best places to start; the charts above show when it's reported most.
How can I find Manatee sightings near me in Florida?
Use the WildMap app on iOS to see recent reports within 100 km from the past 7 days for free (WildMap Pro: 200 km and 30 days), and turn on alerts for sightings near you in Florida.