Cold Water Temperatures Threaten Florida Manatees in 2026
In Florida, cold water temperatures have emerged as a significant threat to manatees, with hypothermia-related deaths doubling by April 2026. The Florida manatee, a species listed as Threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, is particularly vulnerable to cold stress. When water temperatures fall below 68°F (20°C), manatees cannot adapt, leading to increased fatalities. In March 2026 alone, over 30 manatees succumbed to cold stress, a stark increase from the previous five-year average of 12 cold-related deaths annually. Despite these challenges, the overall manatee population in Florida shows signs of recovery, although the long-term effects of recent cold spells remain uncertain.