Good time now to see the manatees?

[chopchop0]

Originally Posted by tricon7

It's odd that they're understandably hands-off at Blue Springs, but people can even swim with them at Silver Springs near Tampa. I don't understand why it's hands-off at one place, and 50 miles away one can swim with and pet them?

I think there's a FL statute against it.

[sam56729]

Ready to see some manatees? Here are five places to check out:

Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River - If you haven't been to Three Sisters Springs, you are missing out. It's a year-round favorite of mine and in the winter manatees come in huge numbers. Kayak or take a boat tour to the springs. I've counted over 100 manatees in the area at one time. With a concentration of manatees like this, you can imagine that there's also a large concentration of people. Remember, be respectful and observe from a distance.

Blue Spring State Park, Orange City - Blue Spring State Park gets my vote for the best "no boat needed" manatee viewing location. During manatee season, the spring and spring run are closed - there are several overlooks and boardwalks along the way. Make a day of exploring the park and watching the manatees. Bring your camera because there are great pictures to be taken and memories to be made.

TECO Manatee Viewing Center, Apollo Beach - Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center is a designated manatee sanctuary where tons of manatees return annually to the warm discharge waters of the Big Bend Power Station. Viewing platforms, tidal walkways, and an environmental education center are located at this 50-acre facility.

Lee County Manatee Park, Fort Myers - Located across from Florida Power and Light and directly on the warm water discharge canal, Manatee Park is another wintertime haven where large concentrations of manatees can be seen. Several viewing areas, a butterfly garden, and picnic shelters are available.

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, Titusville - The Haulover Canal connects Mosquito Lagoon and the Indian River, and on the east side of the bridge is a manatee observation area. Viewing platforms, interpretive signage, a boat ramp, and polarized viewer are located at the observation area.

[brinkofsunshine]

Originally Posted by tricon7

It's odd that they're understandably hands-off at Blue Springs, but people can even swim with them at Silver Springs near Tampa. I don't understand why it's hands-off at one place, and 50 miles away one can swim with and pet them?

Silver Springs? I think you mean Crystal River. SS is close to Ocala.

You're not supposed to pet manatees anywhere.. it can be considered harassment and punishable by law. At Crystal River, you are allowed to get in the water with them but you're not supposed to touch them.