Manatees face increasing risk from boat collisions in Florida

A female manatee rescued in Cape Coral in March later died from injuries after a reported boat collision, and Florida officials say at least 31 manatees have been killed in collisions so far this year.

Manatees in Florida are experiencing a series of fatal encounters with boats as spring brings more boating activity and manatees move into warmer, shallow waters. In early March a female manatee was rescued in a Cape Coral estuary after being in the path of a boat and she died 10 days later at a rehabilitation center. Officials report that collisions have been a significant cause of recent manatee deaths statewide. The seasonal movements of the animals and increasing boat traffic have placed the species and human users of Florida waterways in closer proximity. Key facts: - A female manatee rescued in Cape Coral in March later died of injuries reported to be from a boat collision. - At least 31 manatees have been killed in collisions in Florida since the start of the year, according to state reports. - Florida recorded 632 manatee deaths statewide last year, and collisions accounted for about 25% of those deaths; other contributing factors included a colder winter and a red tide bloom. - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates about 8,350 manatees in Florida, and the animals use coastal waters, rivers and springs across the state and sometimes range into nearby states during warm months. Summary: Manatee deaths affect a species that helps graze aquatic vegetation and is a noted wildlife attraction in Florida, and collisions remain a notable contributor to recent losses. Seasonal manatee protection zones run from April 1 through Nov. 15; other broader responses are undetermined at this time.