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Saturday, 19 December 2009 15:23 |
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 Manatee deaths in Florida waters in 2009 have surpassed the previous record — and the number killed in boat collisions is nearing a record too.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported Friday that 419 dead manatees have been found through Dec. 11. The previous record of 417 manatee deaths was set in 2006.
Through Dec. 11, 94 manatees had been killed in collisions with boats in 2009, one short of the previous record set in 2002, state figures show.
Manatees are losing warm water habitats, such as natural springs or power plant discharges, where they migrate during cold snaps. Prolonged exposure to water temperatures below 68 degrees can cause a range of problems for manatees, including weight loss, dehydration and infections.... Read Full Article by Eric Staats
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