Sarasota police are warning people to leave mating manatees alone

SARASOTA, Fla. — A herd of about 16 manatees that gathered close to South Lido Beach for mating, has drawn loads of consideration from guests.

“Manatees were always my mom’s favorite and she passed seven years ago so they’re very special to me,” mentioned Denise Paese who’s visiting from Wisconsin and noticed the manatees within the water whereas strolling down the seaside.

Sarasota police mentioned it’s fantastic to observe the mating manatees, however officers mentioned some people have been going into the water close to them and attempting to contact the manatees which, just isn’t solely harmful, but it surely’s unlawful.

Stephannie Kettle a MOTE Marine spokesperson mentioned with a document variety of manatees deaths final 12 months, people want to respect the threatened animals and allow them to mate in peace by staying out of the water close to them.

“Pursuing a manatee and altering its behavior to where it’s trying to leave you is considered harassment and it’s illegal,” mentioned Kettle.

FWC mentioned disturbing manatee mating herds, chasing manatees, feeding them, or doing something to annoy the animal is taken into account harassment, and an individual may very well be fined up to $100,000 and face jail time if convicted.

If you see somebody harassing a manatee Kettle mentioned to name the police or FWC officers.

Kettle mentioned it is best to observe the animals from a distance.

“Stand right on the beach and watch from there. They get really close sometimes and you’ll have a front row view to something really cool that happens in nature,” mentioned Kettle.

If you see a distressed/deceased manatee, name Mote’s 24 hr hotline for assist 888-345-2335.