Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Manatees Die in Lee County Amid Cold, Pollution Crisis

2/20/2026

50 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

On February 19, multiple manatees were found dead at Manatee Park in Fort Myers, per the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
In Lee County, about 25 manatee deaths occurred between February 13 and 18.
Rob Howell, behavioral zoologist, notes cold snaps and pollution-linked food shortages as threats, with 18 Lee County deaths since January 1 and statewide deaths totaling 85 this year.

1 of 1

Story summary

On February 19, multiple manatees were found dead at Manatee Park in Fort Myers, per the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
In Lee County, about 25 manatee deaths occurred between February 13 and 18.
Rob Howell, behavioral zoologist, notes cold snaps and pollution-linked food shortages as threats, with 18 Lee County deaths since January 1 and statewide deaths totaling 85 this year.