The Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network has issued a vital warning following reports of the season’s first manatee sighting in Corpus Christi. In a recent Facebook post dated April 29, the network alerted the public to two separate sightings of the same manatee in the area.
Manatees, typically residents of Florida’s warm waters during winter, migrate as far as Texas during the summer months, as emphasized by the network. It’s imperative to monitor these gentle giants’ presence, movements, and well-being as they journey towards the Texas coast.
Tragedy struck last season when a manatee carcass was discovered in the waters near Rockport on August 13. The network underscores that habitat loss and injuries from boat strikes pose significant threats to manatees, highlighting the importance of vigilance and conservation efforts.
Officials from the network stress that manatee sightings were reported from Galveston to South Padre Island last year, indicating the species’ widespread presence along the Texas coastline. In one notable encounter in 2021, Captain Michael Rasco spotted a manatee near the jetties at South Padre Island, underscoring the importance of community involvement in reporting sightings.
Should you encounter a manatee, whether alive or deceased, prompt reporting is crucial. The Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network maintains a comprehensive database of manatee sightings in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. By dialing 1-800-9MAMMAL (1-800-962-6625), individuals can contribute to the network’s efforts to track and protect these endangered creatures.
The network emphasizes the significance of refraining from providing fresh water to manatees via hoses or other means. Not only is this practice harmful, but it is also illegal. Manatees are protected under both the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973, underscoring the need for responsible stewardship and conservation initiatives.
In summary, the recent manatee sighting in Corpus Christi serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of ongoing monitoring and protection efforts to safeguard these majestic creatures as they navigate their seasonal migrations along the Texas coastline.
