Like the snowbirds from the north, the endangered
West Indian Manatee also claim Central Florida as their winter vacation home. As cooler temperatures cause a drop in the water temperatures of the ocean and rivers, the constant year-round 72 degrees of Blue Springs creates a pleasant refuge for these gentle giants. Usually beginning their journey from the St. John's River to the Springs in November, the manatee will stay until sometime in March, when the warmer spring temperatures return. Best viewing of the manatee is usually in December through February, morning and late afternoon.
During the months that the manatee are at the springs, visitors to the park can learn more about them through the ranger interpretive programs that are offered daily. Viewing of this endangered mammal can be easily accomplished through the park's wheelchair accessible observation platform and wooden walkways that run the distance from the spring boil to the river.
Manatee Quiz & Puzzle
Next page > About the West Indian Manatee
