Lee County manatee deaths climb; cold stress a growing concern

CAPE CORAL, Fla. — The investigation into manatee deaths in Lee County is ongoing as another manatee was found in Cape Coral.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported that 25 manatees have died, with cold stress identified as a contributing factor at Manatee Park and along the Orange River.

A local kayaker, Andy Madore, discovered the latest deceased manatee while kayaking at Serenity Vista Park.

"I never recognized it as a rock in that area before. And when I got up a little bit closer, I'm, oh, is it? Oh, it is, and it is," said Madore.

Madore frequently kayaks in the area, hoping to see a manatee up close.

"I've wanted to see it right in my own canoe, right," said Madore. "A little disappointed to have it be this."

He noted there were no obvious signs of boat damage and reported his finding to the FWC.

FWC confirmed that the 25 manatees found earlier this week died due to cold stress, which occurs when water temperatures drop below 68 degrees.

Statewide, 85 manatee deaths have been recorded this year, with 23 attributed to cold stress. Advocates urge people to watch for warning signs in manatees.

"It needs to be floating in the water, sort of balanced. It shouldn't be listening to one side or the other. It shouldn't be breathing rapidly,” said Patrick Rose, executive director of Save the Manatees.

FWC is also investigating whether a recent unplanned shutdown at an FPL plant affected warm-water flow. The plant has since resumed full operation.

Local paddleboarder Tedra Wiles expressed concern over the number of deaths.

"If they can check to make sure the temperature is right, to make sure that the pH of the water is where it's supposed to be, or that the salinity is where it's supposed to be," said Wiles.

"I've never seen that many manatees succumb to cold stress at once," said Wiles.

The investigation remains active, and an updated statewide mortality report is anticipated next Wednesday. FWC urges anyone who sees a manatee in distress or deceased to call the Wildlife Alert Hotline.