Everglades National Park monitors manatees by tagging them and tracking them through aerial surveys. In 2005, scientists observed 176 adults and 7 calves in park waters. The surveys revealed that manatees frequently enter tidal creeks to obtain freshwater for drinking and refuge during cold weather. Park scientists also evaluate manatee health by capturing individuals and taking biological samples for laboratory study.
Did You Know?
Everglades National Park is home to over 1,000 species of plants. The Morning Glory pictured here is a native species. However, over 20% of the plants here are non-native. Researchers in the Park are working to remove those that cause the most problems.