When I think of seasons in Florida, I think of only two: summer and winter – or beach season and manatee season. While beach season may extend through more than just the summer, manatee season runs from November to March. If you’re adventurous enough to brave the colder temperatures, you can experience some amazing sights of these gentle giants.
Big Bend Power Station
In the shadows of the TECO Power Plant in Apollo Beach, manatees can be seen swimming lazily in the discharge canal, a state-designated manatee sanctuary. When the water in the bay drops to below 68 degrees Fahrenheit, manatees find their way into these warmer waters. On a recent visit on a cold January day, hundreds of manatees could be seen from the observation deck. Since the water was very low, their backs could be seen above the surface and looked like stepping stones across the canal. Occasionally, they would roll or flip their tails or come up for air, but don’t expect a lot of activity from the manatees. They rest anywhere from two to 12 hours a day. During that time, they will rise to the surface every seven to 20 minutes to breathe. When they are awake, those breaths are taken every three to five minutes.
It is estimated that there are more than 6,000 manatees currently in Florida waters, up dramatically from the hundreds recorded when they were considered endangered in 1973. These mammals weigh about 1,200 pounds and average about 10 feet long as adults. As plant-eaters, they consume about 15 percent of their body weight in aquatic vegetation every day.
Signs along the boardwalk provide illustrations of fish and birds you might also see. While we were there, we were treated to views of tarpon swimming just below the surface of the water, a shark jumping, and an osprey carrying seaweed to its nest nearby.
Rays Touch Tank
In addition to the manatees, visitors also get a close up view of cownose rays and southern Atlantic stingrays. Reach in and touch them or just watch as they glide past, thanks to a partnership with the Florida Aquarium. A fun fact about these rays is they are actually the mascots for the Tampa Bay Rays baseball team and are here during the team’s off-season.
Other Things to Do
While at the Viewing Center, make sure to stop in the education building for additional information about the manatee and its habitat or stop in at the butterfly gardens. There is also a self-guided nature trail where you can see native plants and coastal water birds. If you plan to walk the trails, make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.
Hours of Operation
The Manatee Viewing Center is open every day from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. from November 1 through April 15. It is closed Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas, and closes early on Christmas Eve. There is no admission fee.
How to Get There
If you are on Interstate 75, take exit 246 west on Big Bend Road and travel about two and a half miles. When the road makes a sharp curve to the left, the Viewing Center will immediately be on your right. There is a parking lot next to the center, but if it is full you will be directed to an overflow lot about a mile away. From there you can walk along a trail or catch a shuttle bus back to the center.
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