FLORIDA — Results from a 2015-2016 manatee abundance survey show that there are more manatees in Florida than previously thought. 

  • More manatees in state waters than thought
  • Between 7500 and 10,300 manatees in Florida
  • 779 manatee deaths documented in 2018

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission now says roughly 7,500 to 10,300 manatees swim in state waters, a significant increase from previous estimates of roughly 6,000.

The results show that conservation measures implemented by FWC and wildlife officials have allowed the manatee population to recover. 

It has been a tough year for manatees in 2018. Wildlife officials have documented 779 manatee deaths so far this year, compared to 538 in 2017.

Experts blame a winter cold snap, a prolonged red tide, and collisions with boats. Wildlife commission statistics show red tide caused or is suspected in over 200 manatee deaths.

FWC plans to continue its research and monitoring efforts of the manatee population and essential habitat.