THE BIGGEST THREAT
Researchers and volunteers work hard to help manatees, but humans are still the manatees’ biggest threat. The warm waters that shelter manatees also attract people who build houses close to the water and drive motorboats. Boat strikes cause many manatee injuries and death. Much work is being done to educate boaters and residents about the dangers they pose to manatees, but there’s still a long way to go.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP
Even if you’ve never seen a manatee before, you can help protect these gentle giants by joining the Save the Manatee Club. The club (SMC) sponsors the very popular Adopt-a-Manatee® program. When you adopt a manatee, you will receive a photo of your manatee, an adoption certificate, information about manatees, and the club newsletter. Your adoption fee will be used to help pay for research, rehabilitation, and education programs. For more information, contact:
Save the Manatee Club
500 North Maitland Avenue
Maitland, FL 32751
www.savethemanatee.org
Manatee Blues #4 Page 8