Above video: Manatees gather at the Manatee Viewing Center as the water temperature drops
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Florida died of more than 500 manatees in 2024, according to data from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Committee.
According to the FWC, 565 manatee deaths were reported last year, similar to the 555 death rate in 2023, lower than the five-year average, with 739 reported cases reported.
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Manatee calves’ deaths are on the rise, with a record 154 fatalities reported in 2024, half of which occurred in lagoons on the Indian River. However, the FWC believes this is due to manatees recreating more calves as population recovers from the Atlantic coastal death event that lasted several years.
The causes of human-related deaths, such as boat strikes, accounted for 30% of all manatees’ deaths.
At least one death was attributed to Hurricane Helen. Manatee’s body was found in the forest half a mile from the water about three months after the hurricane struck. The FWC reported that 19 manatees were rescued after Hurricane Debbie, Helen and Milton.
Residents are urged to call the FWC Wildlife Alert Number if they encounter an endangered species, injured or dead manatee. Call 1-888-404-FWCC (1-888-404-3922) and press “7” to speak to the operator. *FWC can also be dialed.
