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  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An actively swimming male manatee pursues a female in the shallow area of the springs. Horizontal orientation with tree roots and reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-74-3.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An actively swimming male manatee pursues a female in the shallow area of the springs. Horizontal orientation with tree roots and reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-73-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Horizontal orientation. A young female manatee calf with a thick algae layer poses next to its mother in the warm blue freshwater of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-7848.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 between the escort female, furthest away, and the mother. He is riding on their backs as they are trying to keep him away from other manatee. There is a curious male manatee in the foreground. 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-123.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Two adult female manatees socialize and touch flippers near a warm springhead. One manatee is covered in red algae and one has some 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-842.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An active manatee swims while another hovers in the blue spring water with warming sunlight. Horizontal orientation with reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-877.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Manatees socializing and cavorting swim into the blue freshwater springs. A mother and calf trying to rest are on the sand bottom. Horizontal orientation with beautiful warm sunlight. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-294.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Two eager cavorting male manatees bestow their attention on a slow moving mother and calf. Horizontal orientation with blue water and warm sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-296.tif
  • Manatee mothers swimming with their calves are often joined by young males or other calves. Males like to pester the slow-moving pairs and calves temporarily alone while their mothers forage will also follow mother and calf duos. Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) Endangered. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Florida
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-7867.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Three manatees actively swim together while socializing in the warm, safe, blue freshwater of the springs. Horizontal orientation with reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-988.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Two eager cavorting male manatees bestow their attention on a slow moving mother and calf. 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-297.tif
  • New image. This curious male manatee checks out the photographer while rising for a breath near a warm spring. The thin cloud layer produced an interesting glow in the springs. Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris). Endangered. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Florida.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-7821.tif
  • Two females, a female manatee and a lady snorkeler bond in the clear blue waters of Three Sisters Springs. Sometimes manatees are very curious about all life surrounding them, even us. The snorkeler respects the manatee's space. 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
    Two_Ladies_Manatee_and_Human-1372.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. January 13, 2012, a series of the documented adoption of a small female orphan manatee calf. Small female orphan manatee is on the right of the potential adoptive mother while the mother's older female calf is on the left. Many active manatee are in the springs. Horizontal orientation with warm blue spring water on a cold day with reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-702.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. January 13, 2012, a series of the documented adoption of a small female orphan manatee calf. Small female orphan manatee swims under the potential adoptive mother while the mother's older female calf gets curious. Many manatee are in the springs. Horizontal orientation with warm blue spring water on a cold day. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-703.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 manatee is next to an escort female that teamed with the calf's mother to keep him away and safe from other active curious manatees. It is thought this escort female is a relative, attentive friend or a hopeful adoptive mother. Horizontal orientation with mixing blue, aqua and green waters and strong rainbow sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-194.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series of male and female courting or cavorting behavior with more manatee in the background. The couple swims into strong, warming sunlight. The male touches and rubs the female with his snout. Horizontal orientation with beautiful blue spring water. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-250.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 well fed older female calf waits in the warm freshwater springs while mother is away with the orphan.  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-770.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 also has this well fed older female calf who waits here in the springs while mother is away with the orphan.  Horizontal orientation with blue 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-619-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series chronicling the courting or cavorting behavior between male and female manatees. The male touches a receptive female with his flipper. Horizontal orientation with reflection in clear blue freshwater. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-67-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series of male and female courting or cavorting behavior with more manatee in the background. The couple swims into strong, warming sunlight. A male is following this female who doesn't seem to be swimming away. Horizontal orientation with beautiful blue spring water. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-249.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series of male and female courting or cavorting behavior with more manatee in the background. The couple swims into strong, warming sunlight. A female in the foreground has an eager male following her in the warm freshwater. Horizontal orientation with beautiful blue spring water. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-248.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series of male and female courting or cavorting behavior with more manatee in the background. The male is persistent in following the female who is swimming very slowly. Horizontal orientation with beautiful blue spring water. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-247.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series chronicling the courting or cavorting behavior between male and female manatees. The male gently pushes on a receptive female with his snout. Horizontal orientation with reflection in clear blue freshwater. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-71-2.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.This adult female manatee partnered with a curious male manatee to attempt to take the infant away from its mother and escort female. This behavior is only noted as curiosity towards newborns as aggression cannot be assumed. 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-105.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of polite passive interaction, observation of a manatee. A female snorkeler wearing a pink mask observes and adult manatee on a bright day in the springs. Horizontal orientation with blue water, rainbow sun rays and reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-820.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 well fed older female calf waits in the warm freshwater springs while mother is away with the orphan.  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-747.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series chronicling the courting or cavorting behavior between male and female manatees. The male nuzzles a female while she takes a breath with a fish, bream, Lepomis spp., in the clear blue freshwater. Horizontal orientation with reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-73-4.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
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An adult female manatee rises for a breath near a warm blue spring on a cold winter day. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp., are in the background. Horizontal orientation with blue water and soft sunlight. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-517.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series of male and female courting or cavorting behavior with more manatee in the background. The couple swims into strong, warming sunlight. The male appears to be touching a sensitive zone with his snout. Horizontal orientation with beautiful blue spring water. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-251-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series chronicling the courting or cavorting behavior between male and female manatees. The male nuzzles female with a fish, bream, Lepomis spp., in the clear blue freshwater. Horizontal orientation with reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-76.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A female snorkeler is observing a manatee mother and calf on a cool Florida day. The manatees are calm and the mother seems to be interested in the admiration of her little calf. Facing forward towards viewer. 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-0049.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An adult female manatee relaxes while floating over a warm blue freshwater spring. Strong  warming sun rays light her belly as she rolls. Another manatee rests in the background. Horizontal orientation with blue spring water and sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-853.tif
  • The male manatee to our right subtly touches the left flipper of an interested female manatee. Even though the large manatee mating herds are active, there is much socialization that goes on between manatees that is curious and gentle. It is refered to as "cavorting" by the manatee researchers. 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 Male and Female Hang Out_.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. Three manatees are the older female calf on the left, adoptive mother in the middle and orphan female manatee, adoptee, on the right. This ID photograph of tail notches on this adoptive mother and other subtle markings is one of the photographs researchers use to identify her. 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. Horizontal orientation with warm blue spring freshwater and rainbow sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-742.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
  • 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-740.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 is in the foreground being rammed by another curious female manatee. It made the newborn calf dislodge from the escort female's back. The mother manatee turns around to help as she has been guiding away a curious male manatee. Horizontal orientation with mixing blue, aqua and green waters lit with rainbow sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-142.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. January 13, 2012, a series of the documented adoption of a small female orphan manatee calf. Small female orphan manatee nurses from the potential adoptive mother while the mother's older female calf is on the left. Many active manatee are in the springs. Horizontal orientation with warm blue spring water on a cold day with reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-701.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. January 13, 2012, a series of the documented adoption of a small female orphan manatee calf. Small female orphan manatee tries to nurse from the immature older calf of the potential adoptive mother. Indicates the naive nature of small manatees as the older female calf cannot lactate. Horizontal orientation with warm blue spring water on a cold day. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-706.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-1076.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 swims on the left with adoptive mother and the mother's well fed older female calf 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 sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-743.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 is in the foreground being rammed by another curious female manatee. It has made the newborn calf dislodge from the escort female's back. The mother manatee is starting to turn around to help as she is guiding away a curious male manatee. 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-140.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. Series of a female manatee relaxing from  a rightside up position to upside down swimming. A female swims sideways near a warm blue springhead. She is reflected on the calm surface. Other manatee rest by the springs. Tranquil and undisturbed natural behavior. Horizontal orientation with blue water, reflections and sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-657.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. January 13, 2012, a series of the documented adoption of a small female orphan manatee calf. Small female orphan manatee vocalizes to the immature older calf of the potential adoptive mother. The small orphan repeatedly vocalizes loud audible squeaks presumably begging for milk. Horizontal orientation with warm blue spring water on a cold day. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-235.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-805.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-12-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of a female manatee relaxing from  a rightside up position to upside down swimming. A female begins to turn while swimming near a warm blue springhead. She is reflected on the calm surface. Other manatee rest by the springs. An Atlantic needlefish, Strongylura marina, swims nearby. Tranquil and undisturbed natural behavior. Horizontal orientation with blue water, reflections and sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-654.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of a female manatee relaxing from  a rightside up position to upside down swimming. A female floats rightside up near a warm blue springhead. She is reflected on the calm surface. Other manatee rest by the springs. An Atlantic needlefish, Strongylura marina, swims nearby. Tranquil and undisturbed natural behavior. Horizontal orientation with blue water, reflections and sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-653.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of a female manatee relaxing from  a rightside up position to upside down swimming. A female swims upside down near a warm blue springhead. She is reflected on the calm surface. Other manatee rest by the springs. Tranquil and undisturbed natural behavior. Horizontal orientation with blue water, reflections and sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-651.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 pushes the newborn male calf up to the surface to breathe. Another curious female manatee is entering on the left. The mother manatee is guiding a curious male manatee away on the right. 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-137.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series of male and female courting or cavorting behavior with more manatee in the background. The couple swims into strong, warming sunlight. The male appears to tickle the female as she takes a breath. Horizontal orientation with beautiful blue spring water, reflection and rainbow light. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-252.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 pushes the newborn male calf up to the surface to breathe while she takes a breath. The mother manatee is guiding a curious male manatee away on the right. 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-135.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 series chronicling the courting or cavorting behavior between male and female manatees. The male gently pushes on a receptive female with his snout. Horizontal orientation with reflection in clear blue freshwater. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-69-2.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. Series of passive interaction, passive observation. A female snorkeler with a white mask observes a manatee calf. Polite, passive interaction, observation. The manatee's snout and whiskers are prominent and it is lit with rainbow sun rays. 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-826.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 is perched on his new mother's back with an escort female on his left.. It is thought this escort female is a relative, attentive friend or a hopeful adoptive mother. Another curious manatee's snout is just visible entering the frame on the right. This is the first view I had of the newborn manatee, about an hour after sunrise. Horizontal orientation with mixing blue, aqua and green waters with sun rays. Out in front of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-002.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series chronicling the courting or cavorting behavior between male and female manatees. The male approaches a female with a hidden fish, bream, Lepomis spp., in the clear blue freshwater. Horizontal orientation with reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-74-4.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series chronicling the courting or cavorting behavior between male and female manatees. The male gently pushes on a receptive female with his snout. Horizontal orientation with reflection in clear blue freshwater. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-72-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series chronicling the courting or cavorting behavior between male and female manatees. The male rubs a  receptive female with his snout and whiskers. There is also a hidden fish, bream, Lepomis spp., in the clear blue freshwater. Horizontal orientation with reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-68-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series chronicling the courting or cavorting behavior between male and female manatees. The male touches a receptive female with his snout and flipper. There is also a fish, bream, Lepomis spp., in the clear blue freshwater. Horizontal orientation with reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-66-3.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of passive interaction, passive observation. A female snorkeler with a white mask and white fins observes an adult manatee. Polite, passive interaction, observation. 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-831.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 is touching his snout on his new mother with the escort female partially out of the frame on our right. It is thought this escort female is a relative, attentive friend or a hopeful adoptive mother. Horizontal orientation with mixing blue, aqua and green waters. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-012.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of passive interaction, passive observation. A female snorkeler with a white mask observes a manatee calf. Polite, passive interaction, observation. 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-827.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 is touching his new mother with his snout and the escort female is on our right. It is thought this escort female is a relative, attentive friend or a hopeful adoptive mother. Horizontal orientation with mixing blue, aqua and green waters. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-016.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series chronicling the courting or cavorting behavior between male and female manatees. The male nuzzles a receptive female with a fish, bream, Lepomis spp., in the clear blue freshwater. Horizontal orientation with reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-75-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A series chronicling the courting or cavorting behavior between male and female manatees. The male gently pushes on a receptive female with his snout as she floats relaxed. Horizontal orientation with reflection in clear blue freshwater. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-70-3.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 is in between his mother and an escort female, with another curious manatee on the far left. It is thought this escort female is a relative, attentive friend or a hopeful adoptive mother. Note the newborn manatee's fetal folds. Horizontal orientation with mixing blue, aqua and green waters. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-007.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. A flipper rubs its companion's chin. Horizontal orientation with blue water from the spring head, undisturbed. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-989.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A female snorkeler is observing a manatee who comes close to her on a cool Florida day. Facing forward towards viewer. Horizontal orientation and polite, no touch, passive observation. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-6381.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 while she takes a breath. The mother manatee is guiding a curious male manatee away from the infant on the right. 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-132.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of polite passive interaction, observation of a manatee. A female snorkeler wearing a pink mask observes and adult manatee on a bright day in the springs. Horizontal orientation with blue water mixing with green, rainbow sun rays and reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-818.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. Their flippers are intertwined with snouts touching. Horizontal orientation with blue water from the spring head, peaceful. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-990.tif
  • Female manatee poses for a photographer and a snorkeler at Three Sisters Springs. The calm demeanor of the people in the water allows for the manatee to show its curious nature. It is late in the manatee season and the water is clear and blue in the 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
    Manatee_Poses_For_Camera-1373.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A female snorkeler is observing a manatee on a cool Florida day. Facing forward towards viewer. 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-6257.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 and pushes him up with her flipper. The mother manatee is guiding a curious male manatee, in the foreground, away from the infant. 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-125-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of passive interaction, passive observation. A female snorkeler with a white mask observes an adult manatee. Polite, passive interaction, observation. The manatee's snout and whiskers are prominent. 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-829.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 swims with adoptive mother. The skinny calf motions frequently to nurse. 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 sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-744.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 also has this well fed older female calf who waits here in the springs while mother is away with the orphan. This older calf is surrounded by fish, bream, Lepomis spp. and 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.  Horizontal orientation with rainbow light rays and submerged tree roots with reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-737.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 is touching snouts with his new mother, with the escort female on our right.  It is thought this escort female is a relative, attentive friend or a hopeful adoptive mother. Horizontal orientation with mixing blue, aqua and green waters. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-020.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of passive interaction, passive observation. A female snorkeler with a white mask observes an adult manatee. Polite, passive interaction, observation. The manatee's snout and whiskers are prominent. 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-832.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of polite passive interaction, observation of a manatee. A female snorkeler wearing a pink mask observes and adult manatee on a bright day in the springs. Horizontal orientation with blue water, rainbow sun rays and reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-821.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of passive interaction, passive observation. A female snorkeler with a white mask observes a manatee calf while floating over a warm springhead. Polite, passive interaction, observation. The manatee is lit with rainbow sun rays. Horizontal orientation with reflection, 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-824.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 between the escort female, furthest away with flippers only seen, and the mother who is helping to push the infant to the surface. There is a curious male manatee swimming fast, following the mother. 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-121.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. 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
  • A female manatee peers above and below the surface of the Florida springs. Manatees have poor eyesight but do see colors and watery shapes. She also feels the surroundings with her tactile body hairs and whiskery snout. The demeanor looks completely relaxed as she balances on her tail while leaning back with perfect buoyancy in the freshwater. Sunfish or bream (Lepomis sp.) surround her. Vertical orientation with blue water and light rays. Undisturbed, natural behavior. 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.
    Peek-a-Boo_Manatee-2067.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A young female manatee leisurely exits Three Sisters Springs in early October before many manatee gather at this warm water wintering site. This manatee was feeding back in the springs on the early-season grasses and vegetation. 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.
    Manatee_Exits_Three_Sisters_Springs-...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. 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. A male and female manatee socialize in the warm blue freshwater springs. He touches her tenderly with his snout. Horizontal orientation with several resting manatee in the background. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-1045.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A male and female manatee socialize in the warm blue freshwater springs. He stays close beside her. Horizontal orientation with several resting manatee in the background. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-1044.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. An adult female manatee stretches while rolling over and ends up floating upsidedown in the warm shallow waters that rim the springs. Tranquil and undisturbed behavior. Vertical orientation showing some sky and trees with clear water and warming sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_Gal_Stretches-11.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 with snouts touching in a form of manatee kissing. 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_more_CGrant_PS-675.tif
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