If You See a Dead, Sick, Injured, Harassed or Orphaned

 Manatee

Call the FWC Division of Law Enforcement at

SOME FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW

1. If you see a Manatee with a pink or red wound, it means the wound is fresh. CALL THE HOTLINE.
2. If you see a Manatee with a grayish-white or white wound, it means the wound has healed. The manatee can still have internal injuries. If it is tilted to one side, is unable to submerge, seems to have trouble breathing, or is acting strangely, CALL THE HOTLINE.
3. If you observe a baby manatee by itself with no adults around it for an extended period of time, this could be very serious for a young calf. CALL THE HOTLINE.
4. If you see anyone harassing a manatee in any way, CALL THE HOTLINE.
5. If you see boaters speeding in a protected area, CALL THE HOTLINE.
6. If you see a manatee that has become entangled in fishing or crab-trap lines, CALL THE HOTLINE.
7. If you see a manatee tagged with a radio or satellite transmitter, do not attempt to remove the transmitter. The tag is designed to come off if it becomes entangled in something so that the animal won't be trapped.

Before you call the hotline, try to determine the number of times the manatee surfaces to breathe during a five-minute period. Be prepared to give the exact location of the injured manatee. The information you give the Division of Law Enforcement provides the manatee with a better chance for survival.

Please be prepared to answer the following questions:

1. What is the exact location of the animal?
2. Is the manatee dead or alive?
3. How long have you been observing the manatee?
4. What is the approximate size of the manatee?
5. What is the location of the closest public boat ramp to the manatee?
6. Can you provide a contact number where you can be reached for further information?

The above information is the most important information you can provide. However, all additional information you can give will be helpful.

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