More manatees have died in the first half of 2021 than in any other year in Florida’s history

Manatees are dying at an alarming rate. Between Jan. 1 and July 2, 841 manatees have died, which is record breaking. According to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, in 2021 only, the death rate surpassed the previous record of 830 deaths in 2013.

CNN reported:

“The record die-off constituted an ‘unusual mortality event,’ or a sudden surge in deaths of a species. This year’s die-off was primarily due to starvation, with a spike in boat strike deaths in the summer, the FWC said in its most recent manatee mortality report.”

Majority of these deaths occured in the Indian River Lagoon. This habitat was once perfect for manatees with 150 miles of seagrasses, manatees primary food source. However, the area is now polluted causing the seagrasses to die off limiting the manatee’s food supply.

CNN