Finalized 2022 Mortality Report Reveals a Drop in Fatalities, With Cold Stress and Undetermined Causes Leading the Numbers
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has finalized its manatee mortality report for 2022, revealing a total of 800 manatee deaths, a significant decrease from the previous year's record high. The finalized data, which includes a detailed breakdown by county and cause of death, is now available to the public.
The newly released figures provide a comprehensive look at the challenges facing Florida's beloved marine mammal. While the overall decline in mortality is a positive development, the data highlights specific causes of death that continue to be a concern.
READ: Pasco Scallop Zone Reopens Following Algae-Related Closure
The largest single category for deaths was "Not Necropsied," which accounted for 407 deaths, followed by "Natural" causes at 150. Cold stress was also a factor, claiming 13 lives and prenatal deaths at 71. Watercraft collisions were responsible for 78 deaths, making them the leading human-related cause of mortality.
Brevard County reported the highest number of manatee deaths with 346, representing over 40% of the state's total. This is largely attributed to a massive die-off in the Indian River Lagoon due to a lack of seagrass, the manatee's primary food source. Lee County followed with 82 deaths, and Pinellas County recorded 40.
While the 2022 numbers offer a glimmer of hope, conservation groups caution that the manatee population is still in peril. The continued loss of habitat, pollution, and human-related threats like boat strikes and entanglement remain significant concerns.
READ: ZooTampa Expands Manatee Critical Care Capacity With New Pools
The FWC and its partners are continuing their efforts to restore seagrass beds and educate the public on safe boating practices to ensure the long-term survival of the Florida manatee.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Login To Facebook To Comment