Full Breakdown
Rising Manatee Deaths in Lee County: Investigating the Causes
2/20/2026, 10:59:35 AM
Overview of Recent Deaths
In a concerning trend, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reported that approximately 25 manatees have been found dead in Lee County waters between February 13 and February 18, 2023. The alarming discovery was made at Manatee Park in Fort Myers, prompting the park's temporary closure for the removal of the deceased animals. This incident is part of a broader issue, as FWC has recorded a total of 85 manatee deaths statewide this year, with 18 occurring in Lee County since January 1.
Potential Causes of Death
Initial investigations suggest that cold stress may be a significant factor contributing to the recent spike in manatee fatalities. Behavioral zoologist Rob Howell noted that manatees are particularly vulnerable to cold temperatures, with water temperatures below 68 degrees posing a lethal risk. Howell emphasized that despite their size, manatees have only a thin layer of fat, making them susceptible to cold stress.
In addition to cold stress, starvation has emerged as a leading cause of manatee deaths. Pollution in the Caloosahatchee River has diminished the availability of seagrass, forcing manatees to travel longer distances to find food. Howell explained that manatees must consume about 10% of their body weight in vegetation daily to survive. The journey to find adequate food sources can take over a day, further stressing the animals.
Official Statements & Responses
The FWC has urged the public to report any sightings of injured, distressed, or deceased manatees to their Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922). This call to action aims to ensure that trained responders can assist affected animals promptly.
Criticism & Opposition
While the FWC has initiated investigations into the causes of these deaths, some critics argue that more proactive measures are needed to address the underlying issues affecting manatee populations, such as habitat degradation and pollution. Nonprofits and educational groups have begun monitoring the health of seagrass in Southwest Florida, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There is a discrepancy in the reported number of manatee deaths from previous years. In 2022, there were 632 manatee deaths in Florida, with only 33 attributed to cold stress. The lack of necropsies on many of the deceased animals complicates the understanding of the causes behind these fatalities.
What's Next
As investigations continue, the FWC and local conservation groups are expected to enhance monitoring efforts and develop strategies to mitigate the factors contributing to manatee deaths. The situation remains critical, and ongoing public awareness campaigns will be essential in protecting this vulnerable species.
Verbatim Quotes
“If these animals got cold, they're very susceptible to cold stress.” — Rob Howell, Behavioral Zoologist
“If they're not getting that, they're not going to survive,” — Rob Howell, Behavioral Zoologist
