Manatees have made their seasonal return to the Beaufort area, and locals are encouraged to keep an eye out for these gentle marine visitors—especially while boating in local waters.
A manatee was recently spotted swimming peacefully in the Beaufort River, marking the start of their annual migration through South Carolina’s Lowcountry. These massive but peaceful animals, often called “sea cows,” can grow up to 10 feet long and weigh around 2,000 pounds. They typically visit the region from May to November, retreating south when water temperatures drop below 68°F.
A Delicate Presence
Manatees often feed in Beaufort’s shallow tidal creeks, but their numbers in South Carolina are low and difficult to track due to murky water conditions. Most of the estimated 6,600 manatees in the U.S. remain in Florida year-round.
In recent weeks, sightings have been reported in and around Beaufort. With their return comes a renewed call from wildlife officials for the public to be cautious, respectful, and ready to report sightings.
How to Help Protect Manatees
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) urges boaters and residents to:
- Report sightings of live manatees online—photos, especially of scars or distinctive markings, help researchers identify and track individuals. However, never approach manatees by boat to get a picture.
- Be cautious while boating, particularly in shallow areas near docks and marsh edges where manatees like to feed.
- Watch for signs of manatees, including their backs, snouts, tails, or the round surface swirls called “footprints” caused by their movement.
- Follow posted speed limits, heed “no wake” zones, and wear polarized sunglasses to better spot manatees in the water.
What Not to Do
It’s illegal to feed, touch, or provide fresh water to manatees. These interactions can cause the animals to linger near docks and marinas, putting them at greater risk of being struck by boats.
“Feeding and watering manatees encourages risky behavior, and it’s not just dangerous—it’s against the law,” said Melanie Olds, a biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
In Case of an Emergency
If you see an injured or dead manatee, call the SCDNR Wildlife Hotline at 1-800-922-5431. If your boat accidentally hits a manatee, stay nearby and immediately call SCDNR or the U.S. Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16. Reporting the incident quickly gives biologists the best chance to assist the animal and gather important data.
A Species Still at Risk
Though manatees were reclassified from “endangered” to “threatened” in 2017, they are still federally protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act. Violations can lead to fines of up to $50,000 and/or one year in prison.
Manatees face ongoing threats including:
- Boat collisions
- Fishing gear entanglement
- Harmful algal blooms (red tide)
Tips for Being Manatee-Friendly
- Use caution when starting your engine and navigating shallow waters.
- Obey all “no wake” and “manatee zone” signs, especially around docks.
- Never feed or give water to manatees.
- Never chase, harass, or try to interact with them.
- Help educate others about responsible manatee behavior.
Every sighting helps conservationists protect these unique creatures. By staying alert and respectful, Lowcountry residents and visitors can ensure a safer environment for manatees during their stay in South Carolina waters.Tools
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