Q: Why would a group of manatees (8 or more) splash/thrash around in the water when you are near in a boat, as if they were all on the bottom together and then disturbed by our presence? They turned the water muddy and all moved out of the spot, however, when we left; you could see all of them going back (under a big tree lying over the water) afterward. Very erratic, unusual behavior. We have been visiting these manatees for a month and have never seen them act this way. They have always been almost aggressivly friendly. What's the deal? -- Beverly

A: Animal behavior is fascinating -- and can be unpredictable. Perhaps they were indeed disturbed by your presence, as you say, even though you had visited the same spot before. Recent news articles report that more and more people are going out to visit manatees in their habitats (particularly in the colder months, when they come to inland waters), and keeping them from sleeping, eating, resting and other natural activities.

Another possibility is that the manatees were mating. The thrashing you describe sounds like manatee mating behavior.

When in manatee habitat, make sure to follow "manatee manners" for the sake of the manatees and also to avoid being fined for manatee harrassment.

Read the current Q&A

Do you have a question? Contact the editor.