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Save the Manatees or Let Them Go Extinct? It's Our Choice
The manatee is an aquatic mammal—three species of which are found in both North and South America along with western Africa. Often called "sea cow," a manatee can weigh up to 1,500 pounds and grow to 10 feet long. The manatee has no known predators other than humans but—as you can imagine - that's more than enough. Habitat destruction, water pollution, and hunting have put all three manatee species in danger of extinction.
Perhaps the most specific, direct threat to this seal-like herbivore is the omnipresent powerboat. When you combine the speed of such vessels with the fact that manatees are slow, near-surface swimmers, well...let's put it this way: In 1990 alone, 12% of the United States' manatee population (218 manatees in all) were killed in boating accidents and things haven't exactly improved since then.
What We Can Do to Save the Manatees:
Working to make sure that boat speed zones are enforced is a solid first step. As is the case with many endangered species, some groups offer options like "adopting" a manatee or working to create new legislation. Those who live where manatees are found can become part of a sighting network.
Perhaps the most important gesture - not just for the manatee but for us all — would be to recognize that our culture has put us out of balance with nature. This is what the amazing Kogi people call "Koyaanisqatsi." A human culture more in tune with its natural surroundings would instinctively and reflexively choose manatees over speed boats. Learn more about the Kogi and see where it takes you.