FWC issues reminder of guidelines to keep manatees safe as winter continues

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is reminding residents of guidelines to keep Florida's manatee population safe during the winter months.

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During the winter months, when temperatures cool, Florida manatees travel to springs and other warm-water areas for refuge, FWC said.

FWC reminded people in a Facebook post that while enjoying Florida's waterways and the places the manatees call home, the strict viewing guidelines, as well as the regulatory zones, should be followed.

Manatees are a protected species under state and federal law, and touching, chasing, or making any other kind of contact with a manatee is illegal.

FWC said to give manatees plenty of space so they don't become accustomed to people, which can change their natural behavior and make them more vulnerable to harm.

For a full list of FWC manatee guidelines, click here.

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