The Florida Manatee
Facts and Information

The manatee, or sea cow, is one of the world's most unusual and fascinating animals. It is a creature of legend as much as fact.

When Christopher Columbus sighted a manatee in 1493, he mistook the docile, dumpy-looking manatee for a mermaid.

Today, we know quite a bit more about the manatee's true nature than Columbus did.

Where to See Manatees

Manatee Picture - Manatee Photo Gallery

How Long Have Manatees Been Around?

Why Were Manatees Mistaken for Mermaids

Manatees and Elephants: Close Cousins

The Manatee--Where Did Its Name Come From?

How Long do Manatees Live?

Why Manatees Became Endangered