Cold snap sends manatees to Florida springs for winter warmth
Cold snap sends manatees to Florida springs for winter warmth
A chilly week across Florida has sent manatees swimming inland in search of warmer water, with hundreds gathering at Blue Springs State Park, where water temperatures remain a steady 72 degrees year-round.
DELAND, Fla. - A chilly week across Florida has sent manatees swimming inland in search of warmer water.
Hundreds gathered at Blue Spring State Park, where water temperatures remain a steady 72 degrees year-round.
Local perspective:
Manatees cannot tolerate water temperatures below 68 degrees, making natural springs a critical winter refuge.
As colder weather arrives, typically starting in mid-November, the animals migrate from coastal areas such as Flagler County into the St. Johns River system and nearby springs to stay warm for several months.
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Blue Spring State Park becomes one of the most popular destinations to see the animals during cold snaps, with visitors sometimes spotting as many as 500 manatees on especially cold mornings.
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Park officials say the attraction can draw long lines, though those unable to visit in person can watch the manatees through Florida State Parks’ live webcams.
The Source: This story was written based on information shared by Blue Spring State Park officials.