On your next trip to Ambergris Caye, get to know the animal you never thought you’d want to meet: the manatee.
Fondly nicknamed “sea cows” because of their diet mostly consisting of sea grasses, manatees are large, slow-moving mammals that live in the warm, shallow Belizean waters. They tend to spend most of their time in the mangrove forests and sea grass beds. They can weigh up to 1,300 pounds, and usually spend about 6 to 8 hours a day feeding. Interestingly, their closest related relatives are elephants. Though their enormous bodies may appear clumsy and slow, they’re surprisingly graceful!
The manatee has no natural predators. However, they are listed as critically endangered and facing extinction mostly due to human threat, including loss of habitat. Because of this, the government of Belize has taken the initiative to protect these gentle giants. Current efforts include establishing sanctuaries, boat speed zones, laws, and regulations that safeguard manatees.
If you are interested in spotting a manatee next time you visit Captain Morgan’s, let our concierge know and we’ll be delighted to arrange a tour for you.
