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  • My third cover for Visit Citrus Magazine. A younger female manatee catches a breath as my friend Meredith admires her in the crystal clear waters of Three Sisters Spring, Crystal River, Florida.<br />
PDF of entire issue with more of my photographs:<br />
http://pages.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/visitcitrus/ovg2015/offline/visitcitrus_ovg2015.pdf
    VisitCitrusCover_CarolGrant.jpg
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Two adult female manatees socialize near a warm springhead. One manatee is covered in red algae and one has green algae. It is late fall when most manatee first arrive and the type of algae growing on them can give clues as to where these individuals spent the summer. Horizontal orientation with mixing freshwater that turns aqua. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_More_CGrant_PS-845.tif
  • A Florida manatee takes a breath in between seagrass munching. Seagrass restoration projects in and around the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge have been successful. Taken in November 2020 this lush seagrass is in front of the Three Sisters Springs area of the Refuge. While some areas on Florida's east coast had seagrass areas collapse, the west coast of Florida's grass beds have been more resilient. That along with restoration efforts here are key to insuring healthy manatees for the future. This manatee is not skinny! Trichechus manatus latirostris, the Florida manatee at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge in front of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River, Florida.
    Manatee_seagrass_Grant.tif
  • A Florida manatee takes a break in between seagrass munching. Seagrass restoration projects in and around the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge have been successful. Taken in November 2020 this lush seagrass is in front of the Three Sisters Springs area of the Refuge. While some areas on Florida's east coast had seagrass areas collapse, the west coast of Florida's grass beds have been more resilient. That along with restoration efforts here are key to insuring healthy manatees for the future. This manatee is not skinny! Trichechus manatus latirostris, the Florida manatee at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge in front of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River, Florida.
    Manatee_surrounded_by_grass.tif
  • A Florida manatee is bush munching on restored seagrass beds.Seagrass restoration projects in and around the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge have been successful. Taken in November 2020 this lush seagrass is in front of the Three Sisters Springs area of the Refuge. While some areas on Florida's east coast had seagrass areas collapse, the west coast of Florida's grass beds have been more resilient. That along with restoration efforts here are key to insuring healthy manatees for the future. This manatee is not skinny! Trichechus manatus latirostris, the Florida manatee at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge in front of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River, Florida.
    Manatee_seagrass_munching.tif
  • Winter 2014 cover of Alert Diver Magazine, Dan.org. Manatee surrounded by fish photograph by Carol Grant, oceangrant.com.
    Grant_AlertDiver_Cover.jpg
  • Two Florida manatees, a mother and her calf, glide over restored eelgrass Seagrass restoration projects in and around the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge have been successful. This lush seagrass is in front of the Three Sisters Springs area of the Refuge where no aquatic grass had been able to take root for many years. This hybrid variety named rock star eelgrass took root broadly in 2019 and has quickly proliferated. While some areas on Florida's east coast had seagrass areas collapse, the west coast of Florida's grass beds have been more  resilient. That along with restoration efforts like this one are key to insuring healthy manatees for the future.  Trichechus manatus latirostris, the Florida manatee at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge in front of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River, Florida, USA.
    Manatee Mother and Calf Glide Over R...tif
  • Several Florida manatees graze and frolic on restored eelgrass beds while a young calf nurses. Now while moving from one warm water sanctuary area to another, the manatees can munch along the way! Seagrass restoration projects in and around the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge have been successful. This lush seagrass is in front of the Three Sisters Springs area of the USFWS Refuge where no aquatic grass has been able to take root for many years. This hybrid variety named rock star eelgrass broadly took root in 2019 and has quickly proliferated. While some areas on Florida's East Coast had seagrass areas collapse, the west coast of Florida's grass beds have been more  resilient. That along with restoration efforts like this one are key to insuring healthy manatees for the future.  Trichechus manatus latirostris, the Florida manatee at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge in front of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River, Florida, USA.
    Manatees Graze on Restored Eelgrass ...tif
  • Two Florida manatees graze on restored eelgrass while a young calf waits patiently. Seagrass restoration projects in and around the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge have been successful. This lush seagrass is in front of the Three Sisters Springs area of the Refuge where no aquatic grass had been able to take root for many years. This hybrid variety named rock star eelgrass took root broadly in 2019 and has quickly proliferated. While some areas on Florida's east coast had seagrass areas collapse, the west coast of Florida's grass beds have been more  resilient. That along with restoration efforts like this one are key to insuring healthy manatees for the future.  Trichechus manatus latirostris, the Florida manatee at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge in front of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River, Florida, USA.
    Manatees Graze on Restored Eelgrass.tif
  • Several Florida manatees graze and frolic on restored eelgrass beds while a young calf nurses. Now while moving from one warm water sanctuary area to another, the manatees can munch along the way! Seagrass restoration projects in and around the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge have been successful. This lush seagrass is in front of the Three Sisters Springs area of the USFWS Refuge where no aquatic grass has been able to take root for many years. This hybrid variety named rock star eelgrass broadly took root in 2019 and has quickly proliferated. While some areas on Florida's East Coast had seagrass areas collapse, the west coast of Florida's grass beds have been more  resilient. That along with restoration efforts like this one are key to insuring healthy manatees for the future.  Trichechus manatus latirostris, the Florida manatee at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge in front of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River, Florida, USA.
    Manatees Graze on Restored Eelgrass ...tif
  • Several Florida manatees graze and frolic on restored eelgrass beds. Now while moving from one warm water sanctuary area to another, the manatees can munch along the way! Seagrass restoration projects in and around the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge have been successful. This lush seagrass is in front of the Three Sisters Springs area of the USFWS Refuge where no aquatic grass has been able to take root for many years. This hybrid variety named rock star eelgrass broadly took root n 2019 and has quickly proliferated. While some areas on Florida's East Coast had seagrass areas collapse, the west coast of Florida's grass beds have been more  resilient. That along with restoration efforts like this one are key to insuring healthy manatees for the future.  Trichechus manatus latirostris, the Florida manatee at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge in front of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River, Florida, USA.
    Manatees_restored_eelgrass_Jan2022-4.tif
  • Several Florida manatees graze and frolic on restored eelgrass beds. Now while moving from one warm water sanctuary area to another, the manatees can munch along the way! Seagrass restoration projects in and around the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge have been successful. This lush seagrass is in front of the Three Sisters Springs area of the USFWS Refuge where no aquatic grass has been able to take root for many years. This hybrid variety named rock star eelgrass broadly took root n 2019 and has quickly proliferated. While some areas on Florida's East Coast had seagrass areas collapse, the west coast of Florida's grass beds have been more  resilient. That along with restoration efforts like this one are key to insuring healthy manatees for the future.  Trichechus manatus latirostris, the Florida manatee at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge in front of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River, Florida, USA.
    Four Manatees in Restored Eelgrass.tif
  • Two Florida manatees, a mother and her calf, glide over restored eelgrass Seagrass restoration projects in and around the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge have been successful. This lush seagrass is in front of the Three Sisters Springs area of the Refuge where no aquatic grass had been able to take root for many years. This hybrid variety named rock star eelgrass took root broadly in 2019 and has quickly proliferated. While some areas on Florida's east coast had seagrass areas collapse, the west coast of Florida's grass beds have been more  resilient. That along with restoration efforts like this one are key to insuring healthy manatees for the future.  Trichechus manatus latirostris, the Florida manatee at the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge in front of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River, Florida, USA.
    Manatee Mother Guides Calf Over Rest...tif
  • A Florida manatee rests in the warm spring water enhanced by direct sunshine near Big Sister Spring. It is the middle of the winter season when manatees come to the freshwater springs to stay warm. To the far left underwater markers are set to delineate manatee only resting areas. The public boardwalk that recently opened, invites land visitors to observe manatees while staying warm and dry. As of 2015 the boardwalk is operated by the City of Crystal River but is still part of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA. Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, IUCN Endangered but proposed downlisting to Threatened by USFWS for 2017: http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/22106/0. Nikon d7200 1/125 f13 Tokina 10-17 at 10mm ISO 320 Subal Underwater Housing, Subal 8" dome port, natural light. Post-processing is normal listed actions that are not "beyond".
    Manatee_Rests_Near_Boardwalk-3309.tif
  • When the water starts to cool in Florida manatees can be found streaming into warm water areas. I've observed over the years, if the water cools, but doesn't cool too much, often there is an increase in manatee cavorting. It's almost like both males and females are celebrating their return to the treasured warm water winter abodes. When it cools down dramatically the manatees will rest more and conserve energy. But on this twilight of the Florida cold front, before the cold really settles in, they spread out all over and seem to have a celebration of manatee life. Currently in 2022 this very area has seen a resurgence in restored nutricious eelgrass for manatees to graze on. This is another reason at this crucial time it's imperative that boats keep a sharp eye out for the cavorting and grazing manatees.  Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, USFWS downlisted to Threatened in 2017. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, West Coast of Florida USA. Taken on December 10, 2018.
    Cavorting_manatees.tif
  • On the Spring Equinox 2019, a mother manatee swims into the  freshwater warm springs with her appx. two week old calf. The mother manatee is keeping her calf safe beside her while moving from Big Sister Spring to Pretty Sister Spring. USGS Manatee Individual Photo-Identification System IDed the mother. I have all the information, contact Carol Grant for specific information. Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered IUCN. USFWS downlisted to Threatened in 2017. Kings Bay, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Baby_manatee_mother_spring_equinox.tif
  • A very little manatee calf lit by winter rainbows is an irrestible combination! Manatees inhabit shallow waters all along Florida's costal and intracostal waterways. Being very curious creatures they investigate their environment often while floating and exercising their prehensile snout, as this manatee is doing. This is a peek at an undisturbed, natural behavior while this manatee winters in the freshwater springs. Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA. IUCN Red List: Endangered. USFWS implemented downlisting to Threatened 2017: http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/22106/0. Taken under USFWS SUP Permit
    Precious Manatee Calf Lit by Rainbow...tif
  • On the Spring Equinox 2019, a mother manatee swims into the  freshwater warm springs with her appx. two week old calf. USGS Manatee Individual Photo-Identification System IDed the mother. I have all the information, contact Carol Grant for specific information. Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered IUCN. USFWS downlisted to Threatened in 2017. Kings Bay, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Baby_manatee_floats_mom_spring_equin...tif
  • On the Spring Equinox, 2023, a manatee enters the spring run at Three Sisters Springs. There was a short bit of cooler weather late in March, just enough coolness to tempt a few manatees back into the springs. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Crystal River, Florida. Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee.
    Manatee_enters_spring_equinox23.tif
  • A young manatee calf has its mother resting near the submerged cypress tree roots in the crystal clear water at Three Sisters Springs, It is fall, prior to the cooling of the winter season in Florida.These two manatees are early arrivals to the springs before the multitude of other manatees arrive for the winter warming season. Mother manatee sometimes bring their calves to the wintering sites early to familiarize their little ones with all the nooks and crannies. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA. Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, IUCN Endangered but proposed downlisting to Threatened by USFWS for 2017: http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/22106/0.
    Manatee_Mother_and_Calf_in_the_Sprin...tif
  • A rare photograph of myself, Carol Grant, underwater with an interested manatee taken in February 2017. I'm almost always on the other side of the viewfinder! I turned the dome port around for this shot of a manatee investigating. Being very curious creatures they investigate their environment while comfortably floating in the clear blue spring water lit by the sun's rainbows. This is a peek at an undisturbed, natural behavior while this manatee winters in the freshwater springs. Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA. IUCN Red List: Endangered. USFWS implemented downlisting to Threatened 2017: http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/22106/0.
    Carol and Manatee_.tif
  • Relax with this female manatee as she leans back, stretches and takes a breath near submerged cypress tree roots in Little Sister Spring.  The warm blue freshwater of the Three Sisters Springs invites manatees to come bask in the warmth. It is vital these few remaining natural warm water Florida spring habitats are protected for the manatees to flock to in the cooler months.  Mangrove snapper, Lutjanus griseus, and a few bream, Lepomis spp., are also present to share the treasured habitat. I was very still in the water column and holding my breath to witness this natural and engaging manatee behavior. Taken at Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA. Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee. IUCN Red List: Endangered. USFWS proposed downlisting to Threatened for 2017: http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/22106/0
    La-Z_Girl_Manatee-2061.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Two female snorkelers observe an approaching female manatee on a cool Florida day. Facing forward towards viewer, the divers are delighted. Horizontal orientation and polite, passive observation. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-6280.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A polite snorkeler with a GoPro camera takes video of a manatee. A series of peaceful passive interaction, observation, with beautiful reflections. Horizontal orientation with mixing blue spring and green waters. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-863.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An adult manatee floats near a warming blue freshwater spring joined by fish, bream, Lepomis spp. Vertical orientation with strong sunlight. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-1000.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An adult manatee floats with its head turned to the left in the warm blue freshwater of a springhead. Vertical orientation with blue water and reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-163.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Two manatee rest near submerged tree roots with reflections of blue water, tree roots and manatees. Horizontal orientation. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-1036.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A male manatee takes a breath while floating at the surface with strong warming sunlight. Vertical orientation, blue water and reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-261.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered.An adult manatee with green algae on its snout swims in the warm blue freshwater. This type of algae is not eaten but was probably encountered while foraging. Horizontal orientation. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-128-3.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and calf float above a warm freshwater springhead. The strong sun rays are also warming. The calf is reassured while touching mom. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp. are present as are two other resting manatees and submerged tree roots. Horizontal orientation with blue water and sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-1040.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series depicting closeness of mother and calf. A calf rises for a breath while next to its mother near a warm blue spring on a cold winter day. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp., and a mangrove snapper, Lutjanus griseus, are present around the young animal. The manatees tolerate the bream attention as it is the price to pay for sharing the warm waters. Bream target dermis and dead skin on the manatees. Horizontal orientation with blue water and reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-692.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A manatee calf rubs its flippers together while floating near a warm blue spring. Young manatee often have bumpy skin which they eventually grow out of. The young animal's snout and whiskers are prominent as is its curious eye. Peaceful, tranquil and undisturbed scene. Horizontal orientation with blue spring water. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-521.tif
  • Boardwalk or viewing platform with tall trees, blue sky and crystal clear spring water. Horizontal orientation split image. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-1.tif
  • Curiosity is common is little manatee calves. It is the way they learn about their surroundings while mom is resting. Manatees inhabit shallow waters all along Florida's costal and intracostal waterways. Being very curious creatures they investigate their environment often while floating and exercising their prehensile snout, as this manatee is doing. This is a peek at an undisturbed, natural behavior while this manatee winters in the freshwater springs. Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA. IUCN Red List: Endangered. USFWS implemented downlisting to Threatened 2017: http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/22106/0. Taken under USFWS SUP Permit
    Manatee Calf Wrinkles and Curiosity_.tif
  • A manatee swims over the warm Big Sister spring at Three Sisters Springs towards the shallow sunlit areas that rim the spring. Mangrove snapper (Lutjanus griseus) and white mullet (Mugil curema also seek warmth and minerals from Florida's underwater aquifer bubbling up. The round marks on the manatee's back are from barnacles shed earlier in the season. The big spring is rimmed with manatees, resting and socializing. Florida manatees come to Three Sisters Springs during the cooler months to rest and stay warm. Taken in the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA. Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee
    Manatee_Swims_Over_Spring_Towards_Wa...tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A manatee swims over Big Sister Spring attracting a school of Mangrove snapper, Lutjanus griseus, in its wake. These warm blue freshwaters of Three Sisters Springs are a winter haven for manatees and various fish. Taken at Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_Fish_Spring-1739.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A female snorkeler is observing a manatee who is investigating the ridges on her snorkel with its snout. Even when no-touch observation is followed some manatees can be very curious and investigative. Horizontal orientation and polite, passive observation, no touch. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-7735.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Two manatee swim into the warm freshwater springs. Horizontal orientation scenic split image with patterned sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-50.tif
  • A family with child in one of the kayaks explores the natural freshwater springs on a cool winter day. Horizontal orientation split image. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-11.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A curious  adult manatee floats in the warm blue freshwater of a spring. It is lit by strong warming rainbow sun rays.  Vertical orientation with blue water and reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-103-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series of manatees gathering near the warm springs during the bitter cold period of early January 2010. A few adult manatee with boat propeller scars and one with tail lacerations rest and try to stay warm with many other manatees around the warm blue freshwater of the natural springheads. Three other manatee are surfacing for a breath. Manatee need these natural warm springs to survive cold weather, like today. Horizontal orientation with blue water and many manatees with reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-1084.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of snout in sand behavior. A manatee rises for a breath with sand all around it after having its snout moving around in the sand. Researches theorize this behavior is sieving through sand to get minerals or nourishment , or it could be scrubbing its mouth or teeth, or maybe it just feels good as the snout is very sensitive. Horizontal orientation at the perimeter of the spring with beautiful sun rays and blue spring water. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-472.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An adult manatee rises for a breath while warming itself in the spring water and rainbow sun rays. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp., are present. Peaceful, natural, undistrubed scene. Horizontal orientation with blue spring water, sun rays and reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-377.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An adult manatee rests on its side in the warm blue freshwater. Horizontal orientation with sun. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-58-3.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. February 29, 2008, rare series of the documented first day of a newborn male manatee calf that takes place out front of Three Sisters in the shallow waters in front of the manatee sanctuary. The rare event begins about an hour after sunrise. No other people, besides myself, came for almost an hour so this depicts natural manatee behaviors. It was an unusually cold, late winter morning. The newborn male calf is on its mother's back as she swims near me, apparently to block other curious manatee from the infant. Horizontal orientation with mixing blue, aqua and green waters, lit by sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-079.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A calf nudges its mother while both float in warm blue spring water. A peaceful and tranquil touching scene with reflections. Horizontal orientation with beautiful light rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-1038.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A manatee calf rubs its flippers together while floating in the warm blue freshwater springs. The young manatee's snout and whiskers are prominent while lit by rainbow sun rays. Calves often have this bumpy, itchy skin which they eventually grow out of. Horizontal orientation. with blue water, reflection and warming sun rays on a cold winter day. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-519.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A manatee calf rubs its flippers together while floating near a warm blue spring. Young manatee often have bumpy, itchy skin which they eventually grow out of. The young animal displays a very cute pose and a curious eye while lit by beautiful rainbow sun rays. Peaceful, tranquil and undisturbed scene. Horizontal orientation with blue spring water and reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-126.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A male and female manatee socialize together in the warm spring fed waters. Horizontal orientation, undisturbed. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-991.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A female takes a breath while a male nudges her. Horizontal orientation with blue and green waters mixing. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS--3.tif
  • Young male manatee calf displays dexterity while stretching during playtime. Rainbow sunrays light his carefree expression in the warm springs. Three Sisters Springs on a clear blue water peaceful day.  Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered IUCN. USFWS downlisted to Threatened in 2017. Kings Bay, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Joyful Manatee Calf.tif
  • A rare photograph of myself, Carol Grant, underwater with socializing manatee taken in February 2017. I'm almost always on the other side of the viewfinder! I turned the dome port around for this shot of a male manatee social behavior. Being very curious creatures they investigate their environment and other manatees while swimming in the clear blue spring water lit by the sun's rainbows. This is a peek at an undisturbed, natural behavior while this manatee winters in the freshwater springs. Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA. IUCN Red List: Endangered. USFWS implemented downlisting to Threatened 2017: http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/22106/0.
    Carol and Adult Manatees_.tif
  • It is very touching to observe a mother manatee leading her young calf around the safe warm springs. Passive observation on the manatees' terms is the proper way as shown by this polite snorkeler. Manatee calves often have wrinkly skin folds. This male calf has lots of wrinkles and he is fat! His mom feeds him well..  Florida manatees come to Three Sisters Springs during the cooler months to rest and stay warm. Taken in the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA. Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee
    Mother_Manatee_with_Calf_and_Polite_...tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series of an adult female manatee who checks in on a male calf that is alone in the springs. There is tender tactile interaction, socialization, and evident caring. The two manatees engage in manatee touching with their flippers entwined or holding flippers. Horizontal orientation with blue water from the spring and other manatee below with reflections and sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_Holding_Hands-681.tif
  • Manatee mother and calf along with another adult gather around the warm spring known as Big Sister Spring. Mangrove snapper, Lutjanus grisius, also winters here. The calf follows mom closely like a good calf and doesn't get lost. In the distance is a manatee-only resting area delineated by underwater markers. Big Sister is the largest of the Three Sisters Springs,  Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA. Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee,
    Manatees_Gather_Around_Spring-4931.tif
  • Manatee mother and calf swim next to each other in the gorgeous spring blue freshwaters of  Three Sisters Springs. This manatee calf is nearly as big as mom. Calves stay with their mothers for two years and grow substantially in that time. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA. Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, IUCN Endangered but proposed downlisting to Threatened by USFWS for 2017: http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/22106/0. Nikon d7200 1/80 f8 Tokina 10-17 at 15mm ISO 400 Subal Underwater Housing, Subal 8" dome port, natural light. Post-processing is normal listed actions.
    Older_Manantee_Calf_With_Mom-1370.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A young female manatee forages in early October before many manatee gather at Three Sisters Springs. There is usually little edible vegetation in the springs, but early in the season this manatee enjoys a substantial snack of aquatic grass, etc. Horizontal orientation with beautiful blue spring water, reflection and cypress tree roots. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Young_Manatee_Forages_Three_Sisters_...tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A female snorkeler is at the water's surface with a manatee in strong sunlight on a cool Florida day. Facing forward towards viewer. Vertical orientation and polite, passive observation. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-6167.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A female snorkeler with a curious manatee at her side look out at the viewer on a cool Florida day. Facing forward towards viewer. Vertical orientation and polite, passive observation, no touch. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-6232.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Horizontal orientation split image with sun rays, tranquil and peaceful. A manatee calf is observed by a father with his sleeping daughter in a red kayak. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp., surround the calf in the warm blue water. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_More_CGrant_PS-176.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. February 29, 2008, rare series of the documented first day of a newborn male manatee calf that takes place out front of Three Sisters in the shallow waters in front of the manatee sanctuary. The rare event begins about an hour after sunrise. No other people, besides myself, came for almost an hour so this depicts natural manatee behaviors. It was an unusually cold, late winter morning. The escort female keeps the newborn male calf next to her near the surface. The mother manatee is guiding a curious male manatee away from the infant on the right, below. Horizontal orientation with mixing blue, aqua and green waters, lit by rainbow sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-129.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series of manatees gathering near the warm springs during the bitter cold period of early January 2010. An adult manatee has substantial tail scars and lacerations. It is trying to stay warm in the blue freshwater natural springs. The manatee appears to be kicking up some sand and most likely foraging or digging with its snout. Horizontal orientation with blue water. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-54.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. February 13, 2012 there are releases of three rehabilitated manatees back into the wild. This is CC Baby the second of the releases. CC Baby is not very timid and kicked up a lot of sand, quickly, while exiting the stretcher. Personnel from United States Fish and Wildlife Services and four other parties conduct the successful release.  Horizontal orientation split image. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-725.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A manatee with a radio tracking buoy rests in warm sun rays near a blue freshwater spring. A few scars are apparent on its tai. Vertical orientation with blue water, reflection,and rainbow sun rays with submerged tree roots. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-034-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A manatee with a radio tracking buoy rests in warm sun rays near a blue freshwater spring. A few scars are apparent on its tai. Vertical orientation with blue water, reflection,and rainbow sun rays with submerged tree roots. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-033.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A polite snorkeler with a GoPro camera takes video of a manatee as it rises for a breath. A series of peaceful passive interaction, observation, with beautiful reflections. Horizontal orientation with mixing blue spring and green waters. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-865.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Manatees swim, socialize and rest near a warm blue freshwater springhead. A boardwalk or viewing platform is nestled amongst the numerous trees. Horizontal orientation split image with strong sun and shadows. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-1020.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An adult female manatee relaxes and rolls in the warm shallow waters that rim the springs. Tranquil and undisturbed behavior. Vertical orientation split image with clear water and warming sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-777.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. February 13, 2012 there are releases of three rehabilitated manatees back into the wild. This is CC Baby the second of the releases. CC Baby is not very timid and kicked up a lot of sand, quickly, while exiting the stretcher. Personnel from United States Fish and Wildlife Services and four other parties conduct the successful release.  Horizontal orientation split image. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-725.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. February 13, 2012 there are releases of three rehabilitated manatees back into the wild. This is Hamilton, the first of the releases. He is finding his own way with tracking buoy attached. Named after the late USFWS Director Sam Hamilton, Hamilton is a rescued orphan manatee from Three Sisters, February 2010 and now at release weighs in at 670 pounds. Personnel from United States Fish and Wildlife Services and four other parties conduct the successful release. Horizontal orientation split image. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-723.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A manatee approaches the shallow underwater tree roots surrounding the springs. Horizontal orientation split image, peaceful and undisturbed with warm sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-152-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Three manatees rest and warm themselves by a freshwater springhead pumping out clear blue water. Mangrove snapper, Lutjanus griseus are present in the spring. A boardwalk or viewing platform is visible amidst the numerous trees. Horizontal orientation split image with sun rays and blue water. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-42.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A manatee swims into the warm freshwater springs on a cool cloudy day. it passes submerged tree roots with a fish, bream, Lepomis spp. amidst the roots. Horizontal orientation split image with blue water. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-21.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. January 27, 2012, a series of the documented adoption of a small female orphan manatee calf. Adoptive mother's older well fed female calf entertains herself in the springs while the mother is away with the little orphan.  Manatee Rescue volunteer in a red kayak documents the adoptive mother's older calf with a camera. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp., are present. Horizontal orientation split image with clear water and rainbow light rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-12.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An adult male manatee rests and warms himself in freshwater with sunlight on his back. His snout and whiskers are prominent. Vertical orientation, blue water and strong warming sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-1006.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A peaceful manatee floating with its reflection in the warm blue freshwater. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp., are present. Vertical orientation. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-366.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An adult male manatee rests and warms himself in freshwater and sunlight with fish, bream, Lepomis spp. Vertical orientation with strong warming sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-334.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An adult male manatee rests and warms himself in freshwater with sunlight. His snout and whiskers are prominent. Vertical orientation, blue water and warming sun rays with partial reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-277.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A manatee floats near the surface in the warm blue spring waters and warming sunlight. Another manatee moves in the background. Vertical orientation with reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-123-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A curious manatee floats and looks out at the viewer. It is a cool winter day but this manatee is staying warm in the freshwater springs. Vertical orientation with blue water. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-111-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A curious manatee floats and looks out at the viewer. The snout, nostrils and whiskers are prominent. It is a cool winter day but this manatee is staying warm in the freshwater springs. Another manatee rests below. Vertical orientation with blue water and reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-103-4.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A curious adult manatee rubs its flippers together while surfacing in the warm blue freshwater of a spring. It is lit by strong warming sun rays. Some manatee rest in the background. Vertical orientation with blue water, rainbow sun rays and reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-75.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An adult manatee rubs under its flipper in the warm freshwater of the springs. The snout and whiskers are prominent. Vertical orientation with warming rainbow sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-59.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A curious manatee with snout and whiskers clearly visible swims into the warm sunlight. Another manatee rests below in the warm, blue, spring fed water. Horizontal orientation with reflection and strong sun. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-880.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Two curious manatees float while lit by sun rays out front of Three Sisters Springs. Green water often predominates away from the springheads. Horizontal orientation, green water with sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-510.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A female manatee rises for a breath in the warm calm freshwater springs. She is reflected in the calm surface as are fish, bream, Lepomis spp. The manatee tolerates the bream as it is the price to pay for sharing the warm waters. Bream target dermis and dead skin on the manatee. Horizontal orientation with reflection, blue water, submerged tree roots and soft sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-498.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of a mature adult male manatee with scars resting and warming himself over a large springhead. An adult male manatee floats with flippers together in perfect buoyancy over a large spring. He flexes his snout. Tranquil warm blue freshwater and rainbow sun rays enhance the peaceful scene  Horizontal orientation with blue water and rainbow sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-486.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A peaceful manatee floating with its reflection in the warm blue freshwater. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp., are present. Vertical orientation. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-369.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Several adults swim in the warm blue freshwater. Two manatees are surfacing to breathe. Horizontal orientation with reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-244-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Several adults swim and socialize in the warm blue freshwater. Strong sunlight also helps keep them warm. Horizontal orientation with reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-243-3.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A group of manatees rest at the perimeter of the springs where the water can get cloudy. One manatee is taking a breath and the reflection is evident on the calm surface. This is a warm spot for manatees on cold days. Horizontal orientation with sun, rainbow light and reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-243-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A young manatee floats near a warm blue spring surrounded by fish, bream, Lepomis spp. The manatee is tolerating the fish attention as it is the price to pay for sharing the warm waters. Bream target dermis and dead skin on the manatee. Vertical orientation with blue water and light rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-135-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A curious adult manatee warms itself in the strong sunlight and warm spring waters. Several other manatee rest in the background. Horizontal orientation with rainbow sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-112.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A manatee has its snout moving around in the sand . Researches theorize this behavior is sieving through sand to get minerals or nourishment , or it could be scrubbing its mouth or teeth, or maybe it just feels good as the snout is very sensitive. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp. swim around the manatee. Vertical orientation with blue spring water. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-113-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An adult manatee turns while floating and shows the underside of its snout, belly and flippers. Horizontal orientation, blue water and rainbow sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-92.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A curious adult floats effortlessly near a blue freshwater springhead while looking out at the viewer. The entire manatee is lit by rainbow sun rays. Horizontal orientation with sun rays and other manatee resting below. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-66.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and calf swim close together in the warm blue freshwater of the springs. Mothers often tuck their calves underneath or close beside while swimming. Horizontal orientation, tranquil with reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-999.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. January 27, 2012, a series of the documented adoption of a small female orphan manatee calf. Small orphan calf nurses on the right with adoptive mother also nursing the mother's well fed older female calf on the left. This adoptive mother manatee is CR554, a female first documented in 1999 and she has been seen with four calves over the years in addition to this young adoptee. Identification data is supplied by Cathy A. Beck, Wildlife Biologist, from USGS Sirenia Project, United States Geological Survey. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp. are present. Horizontal orientation with blue spring water and rainbow sun rays. Rare photograph, rare behavior, uncommon observation. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-735.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. January 27, 2012, a series of the documented adoption of a small female orphan manatee calf. Small orphan calf nurses on the right with adoptive mother also nursing the mother's well fed older female calf on the left. This adoptive mother manatee is CR554, a female first documented in 1999 and she has been seen with four calves over the years in addition to this young adoptee. Identification data is supplied by Cathy A. Beck, Wildlife Biologist, from USGS Sirenia Project, United States Geological Survey. A kayak with a camera held underwater gets further documentation. A Manatee Rescue volunteer is in the kayak holding the camera. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp. are present. Horizontal orientation with blue spring water and rainbow sun rays. Rare photograph, rare behavior, uncommon observation. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-730.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. January 27, 2012, a series of the documented adoption of a small female orphan manatee calf. Small orphan calf nurses on the left with adoptive mother and the mother's well fed older female calf waits on the right. This adoptive mother manatee is CR554, a female first documented in 1999 and she has been seen with four calves over the years in addition to this young adoptee. Identification data is supplied by Cathy A. Beck, Wildlife Biologist, from USGS Sirenia Project, United States Geological Survey. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp., are present. Horizontal orientation with blue spring water and rainbow sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-716.tif
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