Florida is losing one of its most prized aquatic animals.
Nine-hundred and eighty-four manatees, also known as “sea cows,” died in 2021 — about twice as many as the 483 that died in 2020, according to data from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
“We are committed to working with partners and our dedicated funding to identify actions necessary to conserve Florida’s population of manatees,” said Carly Jones of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. “We will continue to evaluate next steps based on what we learn from this event.”
DESANTIS OFFERS POLICE $5,000 BONUS TO RELOCATE TO FLORIDA AMID VACCINE MANDATES
Deaths were largely due to depletions of seagrass in the Indian River Lagoon, according to a report. Toxic waste runoff causes poisonous algae to bloom that are harmful to the 1,000-pound creature’s diet.
They can travel hundreds of miles to seek out food, but the colder the water becomes, the more nutrients manatees need to sustain themselves, CNN reported, citing aquatic animal expert Michael Walsh, who teaches at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
More than 760 manatees died in 2010 during a cold snap in Florida’s waters.
