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  • On the Spring Equinox 2019, a mother manatee swims into the  freshwater warm springs with her appx. two week old calf.  A male impedes the mother as she leads her calf. Manatee moms are slow and an easy target for young frisky bothersome males. The mother stays calm and wards off his advances while keeping her calf safe beside her. USGS Manatee Individual Photo-Identification System IDed the mother and the bothersome male. 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.
    Male Manatee Impedes Mother and Calf.tif
  • Manatee mother with her calf bond in the warm spring waters of Three Sisters, Crystal River, Florida. The cow/calf bond is very profound as manatee calves learn everyting from their mothers. This photograph was taken in Three Sisters Springs, part of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge on a cool February day in 2021.
    Manatee_mother_calf_bond.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
  • 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. Horizontal orientation. Manatee mother and young curious calf bask in warming sunlight at Pretty Sister Spring. Mangrove snapper, Lutjanus griseus, also swim in the warm blue freshwater of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_Mother_Calf_Florida_Sunshine...tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Manatee mother takes a breath while nursing her calf. Manatee mom multitasks near Pretty Sister Spring's warm blue freshwater. This is one of the three tandem springs that comprise Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_Mother_Multitasks-1220.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. 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. Horizontal orientation. An older male manatee calf plays intimately with its mother. This behavior is thought to be a sign to the mother that her calf needs to be weaned. Floating in the late-season blue freshwater of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-8323.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. A mother and calf swim in clear, warm freshwater habitat. This mother swims with her calf underneath her to protect and guide it. Horizontal orientation, backlighting with sun. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-225.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series depicting closeness of mother and calf. A calf nudges its mother with its flipper while floating next to her 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-189.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series depicting the close bond of manatee mother and calf. A mother and calf float at the calm surface while the mother appears to try to corral the active calf. A fish, bream, Lepomis spp., is present. Another manatee rests below. Peaceful, natural, undistrubed scene. Horizontal orientation with blue spring 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-082-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series depicting the close bond of manatee mother and calf. A mother floats at the calm surface while allowing her young calf to play in the sand. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp., are present. Peaceful, natural, undistrubed scene. Horizontal orientation with blue spring 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-1080.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of mother and calf in the springs. Mother takes a breath while her active calf takes off to explore, flanked by fish, mangrove snapper, Lutjanus griseus. Their red algae can be a clue as to where the pair spent the summer. 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-273.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A male calf engages in intimate play with its own mother. This behavior is thought to  be a signal to the mother it is time to wean her calf. Another manatee swims in the background. Horizontal orientation with blue water, warming sun rays, tree roots and reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-9.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. A mother with her small calf.  A close bond and touching intimate scene between mother and calf. Horizontal orientation with blue water and warming sun rays with reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-1063.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. A mother takes her calf to forage in the submerged tree roots near the perimeter of the springs. Manatees will rub their snouts on the roots and may also scrape root covers for a snack when there is no other food available in the area. The warm freshwater springs do not contain much food for manatees. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp. are present around the mother and calf. 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 spring water. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-536.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother manatee nurses twin female calves at the same time in the warm springs on a cold winter day. Twins are rare and these are not documented but evidence suggests they are twins and not a calf plus an adoptee. More manatee rest by the warm blue freshwater springhead. The other calf that is surfacing appears to have sores, possibly from cold stress or a virus. Rare series and rare behavior. 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-1030.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A manatee calf rubs its flippers together against its chest while floating and rolling in the warm freshwater springs. His mother observes. Young manatee often have this bumpy, itchy skin they eventually grow out of. Horizontal orientation with blue water, reflections and another manatee resting in the background. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-639.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and calf swim near a large warm freshwater springhead while the calf rises for a breath. A few other manatee are in the background. Horizontal orientation with blue spring water and reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-18.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
  • Manatee Health Assessments, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA. November 28, 2012, 3:08 pm. Researchers from several federal and state agencies work together to gather data during the manatee capture and health assessments. A mother manatee and her calf swim into Three Sisters Springs after being sampled for the manatee assessments four hours earlier. They are assigned grease pencil marks 19 and 20 along with their sex. This mother and calf was photographed in the net four hours earlier and were kept together and released together.
    Manatee_assessments_CGrant_PS-178.tif
  • Manatee Health Assessments, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA. November 28, 2012, 3:08 pm. Researchers from several federal and state agencies work together to gather data during the manatee capture and health assessments. A mother manatee and her calf swim into Three Sisters Springs after being sampled for the manatee assessments four hours earlier. They are assigned grease pencil marks 19 and 20 along with their sex. This mother and calf was photographed in the net four hours earlier and were kept together and released together.
    Manatee_assessments_CGrant_PS-177.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and calf swim over a large blue freshwater springhead. The mother has a large scar from an injury on her back reflected on the surface. Fish, a mangrove snapper, Lutjanus griseus and a bream, Lepomis spp., are present. Horizontal 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-534.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Two male manatee calves take a break from playing while one of their mothers swims in. She is swimming with her belly away from them on purpose. When calves begin to play intimately it may be a sign it is time for the mother to wean them. One of a series of calf intimate play or cavorting play behaviors. Horizontal orientation and blue water and reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-1059.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series depicting the close bond of manatee mother and calf. A mother swims with her calf in tow near the calm surface. in the warm freshwater springs. Peaceful, natural, undistrubed intimate scene. Horizontal orientation with blue spring 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-070.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and calf swim over a large freshwater springhead. The calf is curious as mom surfaces to breathe. Tranquil 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-62.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 next to mom. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp. are present as are two other resting manatees. 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-38-2.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. Horizontal orientation. A young manatee calf swims next to its relaxing mother swimming on her side in the warm, fresh blue water of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-7066.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother manatee swims with her calf midday near a large freshwater springhead. The pair is facing forward, looking at the viewer and the reflection is on the surface. Horizontal orientation with blue and aqua mixed waters. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-5859.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Closeup of a mother manatee as she nurses her calf near a large freshwater springhead. Calm spring waters enhance a peaceful reflection on the surface. 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-5289.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and calf rest along with other manatee by a warm blue spring. The mother has substantial injuries caused by the skeg of a boat motor or two boat motors and some scars caused by a propeller. Vertical 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-267.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother manatee navigates with twin female calves in the warm springs on a cold winter day. Twins are rare and these are not documented but evidence suggests they are twins and not a calf plus an adoptee. Usually adult manatee are IDed by scar patterns on their back and tails, but this mother was not identified as she has such slight markings. Rare series. Horizontal orientation with blue water and partial reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-95-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother with her small calf, curious and looking out. Calves often have this bumpy skin which they eventually grow out of. Horizontal orientation with blue water and warming sun rays with reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-1061.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and her curious calf rest together next to a blue freshwater springhead. More manatee rest peacefully in the background. Horizontal orientation with soft light and sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-228.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of mother and calf in the springs. Mother guides her calf near a large, blue, freshwater springhead. She has a large tail slash injury from the skeg of a boat motor. Mangrove snapper, Lutjanus griseus, are present. Horizontal orientation with blue water and dappled sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-212.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series depicting the close bond of manatee mother and calf. A mother and calf float at the calm surface next to each other. A fish, bream, Lepomis spp., is present. Another manatee rests below. Peaceful, natural, undistrubed scene. Horizontal orientation with blue spring 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-083-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A male calf engages in intimate play with its own mother. This behavior is thought to  be a signal to the mother it is time to wean her calf. Another manatee swims in the background. Horizontal orientation with blue water, warming sun rays, tree roots and reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-8-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Horizontal orientation with reflections. A male manatee calf surfaces with its mother in the warm  freshwater of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-8313.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of mother and calf in the springs. Mother guides her calf over a large, blue, freshwater springhead. She has a large tail slash injury from the skeg of a boat motor. Mangrove snapper, Lutjanus griseus, are present. Horizontal orientation with blue water and dappled sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-145.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and calf swim past submerged tree roots and into the warm blue freshwater springs. Other manatee rest in the background. A few bream, Lepomis spp., are amidst the tree roots. Horizontal orientation. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-72.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and calf surface for a breath on a cold winter day. They warm themselves in the natural freshwater springs. The calf appears to have some sort of sores, possibly from cold stress or a virus. 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-43.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and calf swim over a large warm freshwater springhead. Another manatee seems to be following them. There are other resting manatee in the background. 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-17.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 like 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-0048.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Horizontal orientation. A mother manatee caresses her older male calf with her snout. This calf is nearing the time of weaning. Is this one of the tender touches from mom before he leaves the nest? Strong March sunlight lights this intimate scene. The pair is floating 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-8326.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother manatee swims with her calf over a large freshwater springhead. The sun shines strong light on the little manatee adding an etherial quality. 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-5198.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 mother and her calf, both with many boat propeller scar injuries, rest and try to stay warm other manatees around the warm blue freshwater of the springheads. 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-136.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and calf pair float at the surface, resting near a warm springhead. Vertical orientation with reflections and soft light. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-1041.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of mother and calf in the springs surrounded by fish, bream, Lepomis spp. The calf rises for a breath while mom looks on. The manatees tolerate the fish 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 spring water and reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-652.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and calf swim near a large warm freshwater springhead. Other manatee and a snorkeler are in the background. Horizontal orientation with blue spring water and reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-19.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and calf swim past submerged tree roots and another manatee is following them. Horizontal orientation with blue spring water and reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-16.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Horizontal orientation. A male manatee calf surfaces for a breath with its mother in the warm  freshwater of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-7792.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 on the opposite side of his 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-111.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and calf travel from one spring to another and the calf appears curious. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp are present. Blue water, beautiful light rays and reflections highlight this tranquil, undistrubed 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-451.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Horizontal orientation. A mother and calf swim peacefully during early Spring in the clear, warm blue waters of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-92-3.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Vertical orientation. A mother manatee swims with her male calf right next to her. Strong March sunlight lights this scene with reflections on the calm surface. The pair is swimming 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-8311.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Horizontal orientation. A male manatee calf surfaces with its mother and is lit by strong, late-season sunlight in the warm  freshwater of Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-8223.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother manatee nurses her calf near a large freshwater springhead. Calm spring waters enhance a peaceful reflection on the surface. 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-5290.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and calf swim next to each other in the warm, blue spring waters. Their curiosity is evident. Horizontal orientation with sun rays and reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-219.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered.A mother and calf swim over a warm spring with shadows of other manatee resting in the background. Algae, Lyngbya spp., is surrounding the springhead. Horizontal orientation with blue water and lovely sunlight. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-191.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and small calf curiously peer at the viewer while floating near blue freshwater springs. Calves often have this bumpy skin that they grow out of.  Another manatee rests in the background. Horizontal orientation with blue spring water and reflections, tranquil and undistrubed. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-017.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered.A mother and calf swim over a warm spring with other manatee resting in the background. The calf is curious. Algae, Lyngbya spp., is circling the springhead. Horizontal orientation with blue water and lovely sunlight. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-192-2.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A manatee mother pauses along with her curious calf to check out the photographer. Facing forward towards viewer the manatees seem to be questioning. Horizontal orientation with blue spring water and light rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-8220.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A mother and calf rest near a warm blue springhead. A boardwalk or viewing platform is visible amongst the numerous trees circling the springs. Horizontal orientation split image, peaceful and undisturbed with sun rays and shadows. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-98.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Mother and calf touch and display their close and tender bond. Unique peaceful image with snell's window. Horizontal orientation with blue sky looking up. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-456.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. 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-328.tif
  • Another recent image from the 2017/2018 winter season. Manatee calves stay with their mothers for nearly two years and this calf is big enough to be near weaning. They learn everything from mom. Barnacles indicate this pair is a recent arrival to the freshwater springs. The barnacles will fall off in the fresh water environment and become food for anhinga and various other creatures. This is a peek at an undisturbed, natural behavior while this manatee winters in the clrat blue freshwater springs. Spring outflow and natural lighting sometimes blend in a lovely blue scene like this. 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 Mother and Calf Swim Over Bi...tif
  • Another recent image from the 2017/2018 winter season. Manatee calves stay with their mothers for nearly two years and this calf is big enough to be near weaning. They learn everything from her, including the best times to surface for a breath. Being very curious creatures they investigate their environment. Barnacles indicate this pair is a recent arrival to the freshwater springs. The barnacles will fall off in the fresh water environment and become food for anhinga and various other creatures. 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 Mother and Older Calf in the...tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Two male manatee calves take a break from playing while one of their mothers swims in. One of a series of calf intimate play or cavorting play. Horizontal orientation and blue water and reflection. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-450.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 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. 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. 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 mother manatee nurses twin female calves at the same time in the warm springs on a cold winter day. Twins are rare and these are not documented but evidence suggests they are twins and not a calf plus an adoptee. Mother nursed both calves for over three minutes straight. Rare series and rare behavior. Vertical orientation with blue freshwater from the springhead. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-1031.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 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. A mother manatee nurses twin female calves at the same time in the warm springs on a cold winter day. The mother is surfacing to breathe but continuing to nurse. Twins are rare and these are not documented but evidence suggests they are twins and not a calf plus an adoptee. Rare series. Horizontal 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-1028.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series depicting closeness of mother and calf. A calf floats close to its mother near a warm blue spring on a cold winter day. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp., are present around the young animal. 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-695.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series depicting closeness of mother and calf. A calf floats close to his mother near a warm blue spring on a cold winter day. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp., and a mangrove snapper, Lutjanus griseus, are presentl. 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-694.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of mother and calf in the springs surrounded by fish, bream, Lepomis spp. The calf gets curious while mother rises for a breath. The manatees tolerate the fish 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 spring water and reflections. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-637.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series depicting closeness of mother and calf. A calf nudges its mother and vocalizes to her while floating near a warm blue spring on a cold winter day. Fish, bream, Lepomis spp., and a mangrove snapper, Lutjanus griseus are present near the young animal. 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-514.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of mother and calf in the springs. Mother nurses her calf in front of a large, blue, freshwater springhead. Horizontal orientation with blue water and sun rays. Peaceful and undisturbed. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS--2.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. 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 mother and calf in the springs. Mother rests while her active calf takes off to explore. 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-285.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of mother and calf in the springs. Active calf explores. Calves often have bumpy skin that they eventually grow out of. The red algae can be a clue as to where he and his mother spent the summer. 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-193.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. 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. 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 laying between its mother and the escort female on their backs. The mother and escort female are flanked on either side by the curious other female manatee and curious male manatee.  The manatees are in front of the sanctuary because the water level is too shallow inside the sanctuary on this morning and there may be less room to escape curious manatee inside the sanctuary at this time. 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-038.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. Series of mother and calf in the springs. Active calf explores. Calves often have bumpy skin that they eventually grow out of. The red algae can be a clue as to where he and his mother spent the summer. 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-282.tif
  • Florida manatee, Trichechus manatus latirostris, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, endangered. A male manatee calf rubs snouts with his affectionate mother near a warm water spring vent. The mother and this older calf have a close bond. Horizontal orientation. The pair is floating 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-8346.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 new manatee mother near the surface swims away from other manatees with the newborn calf on her snout. She was trying to keep him away from other curious manatees as a calf must bond with its mother soon after birth and not be separated. Horizontal orientation with mixing blue, aqua and green waters with sun rays. Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Kings Bay, Crystal River, Citrus County, Florida USA.
    Manatee_more_CGrant_PS-169.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 laying between its mother and the escort female on their backs, while being lifted to the surface. The mother and escort female are flanked on their right by the curious male manatee in the foreground and on the far left by the curious other female manatee.  The manatees are in front of the sanctuary because the water level is too shallow inside the sanctuary on this morning and there may be less room to escape curious manatee inside the sanctuary at this time. 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-029.tif
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