Manatees and dugongs abroad and while traveling: are they dangerous, where do you encounter them, where can you see them?

What are manatees?

• This special animal group of manatees consists of 3 species of manatees and the dugong (Dugongs).
• Manatees are true herbivores and related to elephants.
• They grow between 2.5 and 4 meters and can weigh up to 1500 kg!
• Unfortunately, the manatee populations are vulnerable to extinction. The greatest dangers to manatees are habitat loss and hunting.

Where do manatees (manatees) live?

• Manatees live in Latin America from Brazil to Florida.
• The West African manatee lives in shallow waters of West Africa.
• Abroad, people often talk about Manatees (or manatí in Spanish)

Where do dugongs live?

• The dugong can be admired in the waters of Northern Australia, Southern Asia, the coastal strips of the Middle East and East Africa.
• The dugong lives on sea grass and only in salt water.
• The dugong is also called the Indian sea cow.

Are manatees dangerous?

• Dugongs are often shy and timid, manatees are more curious. In general, manatees are not dangerous to humans.
• However, humans are dangerous to the manatee. People can cause a lot of stress and with the good memory of manatees, this can linger for a long time.
• In most places in the world, the survival of the manatee is seriously threatened.

What to do if you encounter a manatee in the wild?

• It is always important to keep sufficient distance (50m), especially from a mother with her young.
• Never swim towards them, but let them come to you.
• Stay calm! They won't come to them quickly with a lot of noise, fast movements and throwing water.
• Just watch! Feeding, touching or approaching them in any other way is not good for the animals.

What to do if a manatee attacks you?

• In general, the animals are very calm, but if they do come to you, it is best to move away calmly. Do not make sudden noises or movements.

Can you do volunteer work or an internship with manatees, manatees and dugongs?

• There are a number of organisations in Australia, Costa Rica, Thailand and Belize, among others, that accept volunteers. These are usually research projects or nature conservation organisations.