When you are far away, to help manatees--

• Learn all you can about manatees and the dangers they face (some of the dangers are for humans, too!)
• Talk about what you have learned--the more people know, the more they can help.
• Join organizations that put their money into manatee conservation, research and education
• Read to others about manatees--storybooks, news articles, your own stories, etc.
• Visit zoos, museums, and theme parks that help conservation, and support manatees.

When you are on land near manatees--

• If you suspect someone is harassing manatees in Florida, call the Florida Marine Patrol.

When you are boating in known manatee waters---

• Wear polarized glasses. Whether you are operating the boat, or being a "spotter" these lenses make it easier to see into the water. Manatees may look like vague shapes only, or not be visible at all!
• Be alert for manatee noses, backs, and tails. Manatees seem to frolic when they feel safe, and a group may be nearby.
• Watch for a line of circles appearing on the water--usually going away from you--these are caused by the manatee tail as it powers the animal away, and show how shallow the animal really is swimming!
• Follow all boating laws, including speed (usually "no wake"), channel markings, and no-enter sanctuaries.
• Avoid areas manatees might be--seagrass beds especially, since manatees spend a lot of time eating hydrilla andwater hyacinths.

When you are in the water with manatees--

• Snorkel only--you'll see more because manatees prefer quiet, slow-moving people.
• Know and obey the laws. Manatees are protected as an endangered species. (see the page on Frequently Asked Questions on this site)
• Never feed, chase, or grab onto a manatee. It is a wild animal, endangered, and deserves our respect and consideration.
• Do take pictures, but not with flash. (How do you feel when the light goes off in your eyes?)
• Enjoy your adventure. Think about how lucky you are--few people in the world have the opportunity!