October 22, 2024
Grace and Beauty If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing one of Florida’s most iconic and gentle creatures in its natural habitat, then a manatee tour with Miami Native Tours is the perfect opportunity. These majestic creatures, often referred to as “sea cows,” glide gracefully through the waters of South Florida, offering a peaceful sight to behold. From now through March or April, the manatees are in full view, and Miami Native Tours provides the best way to experience them up close. The History of Manatee Preservation in Southern Florida Manatee preservation efforts have come a long way in Florida, thanks to decades of advocacy and environmental protection. Once threatened by boat collisions and habitat destruction, the manatee population has benefited from extensive conservation measures . In 1973, the West Indian manatee was listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act , and in 1978, the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act was passed, designating Florida as a safe haven for these gentle giants. Over time, stricter boating regulations, awareness campaigns, and habitat restoration projects, such as the protection of seagrass beds (a primary food source for manatees), have allowed the population to stabilize. Though challenges remain, especially in other parts of Florida where manatees struggle with environmental changes, Southern Florida’s manatee population is thriving. In Miami, specifically, manatees continue to enjoy healthy conditions, with plentiful food sources and growing families. It’s a true success story for wildlife preservation.