Seasonal Manatee Sightings in Port Everglades

Seasonal Manatee Sightings in Port Everglades

Due to a decrease in ambient water temperatures during the winter months in Florida, the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) will seek warm water refuge in power plants and natural springs throughout both north and south Florida. Port Everglades is an important haven for these animals in south Florida, providing warm water as well as a food supply. The goal of this research is to examine the correlation between the number of manatees spotted in Port Everglades versus the year, water temperature, and location in the port. Since 2006, data has been collected on the manatees in Port Everglades and data has been interpreted in a number of ways. It is clear that as the water temperature at different locations in the port decreases, there are an increased number of manatees seen. Although they start coming into port around the end of October, the majority of observations have been throughout January and early February when the temperatures are also the lowest. This project's focus will be on the month to month changes in the manatee population in the Port. The water temperature, measured from several different locations will also be compared to the number of manatees sighted. After analysis of previous research as well as data from this project, the anticipated results would be documentation of an increased number of manatees associated with colder temperatures, an increased number of sightings during January and February, and a possible overall increase in the number of manatees visiting the port each year.