West Indian Manatee - Michael S. Nolan Photography

On the western coast of central Florida are several warm water spring systems that attract West Indian Manatees during fall and winter months. These animals seek the relatively warm and protected fresh water systems, as the waters of the Gulf of Mexico grow cooler. These slow moving sirens are naturally inquisitive and will often approach a snorkeler or even a boat to investigate.

Their gentle nature and curiosity often lead to interactions with snorkelers in the shallow waters of the springs. This is the only highly endangered marine mammal in the United States that it is legal to interact with in such a fashion. On a busy weekend day literally hundreds of boaters, swimmers, and snorkelers will seek Manatees in these quiet waters.

Floating in the quiet springs with these animals is always a treat. They seem unperturbed as they forage along the river’s bottom or simply enjoy the warmth of the springs. Their bulky bodies belie the grace with which they move and swim.

I have been filming Manatees since the early 90’s. A trip to see them is always a treat, but I often feel as if the fate of these gentle creatures is surely in jeopardy. In the years I have been filming them their very existence has come into question. So many factors have made life so very hard for these gentle animals. Increased human usage of the rivers and springs leave most animals injured and scarred by boat propellers, sometimes fatally. Red tides have taken huge tolls of individuals. Water quality in the springs is decreasing drastically, as more and more people wish to build homes and live along the river’s edge. In our expanding modern world, it seems like there is little room or human patience for Manatees. It will indeed be a sad commentary on our system of values if we should lose this magnificent animal.

TIPS FOR WEST INDIAN MANATEE PHOTOGRAPHS: The best time to view these animals is from October to April along the Crystal River and in Homosassa Springs. The water is relatively warm (72 degrees), but still cool enough to wear a full wetsuit for prolonged exposure times. Look for cold weather fronts in the area, as this is the best time to find Manatees in the warmer waters of the springs. Ultra wide-angle lenses will work best, as water visibility is often limited. Move slowly as these animals are often approached and frightened by fast moving boats and swimmers. Surrounding waters can be very dark, so a film with an ISO rating of 100 or higher will work best.