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FWC Monitors Ocean Life Through Cold Weather

Manatees swim at Wakulla Springs
Manatees swim at Wakulla Springs

Florida experienced shocking lows this past week. A shock not just for land lovers, but ocean life that surrounds the Sunshine State.

Manatees huddled in springs this past week, to fight the cold weather Florida has been experiencing, and counteract cold stress.

Cold stress can sometimes kill sea life or make it more susceptible to diseases.

Meanwhile sea turtles are going limp and floating in shallow water- a behavior called cold stunning. Other fish float near the surface of the water in order to be closer to the sun. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges boaters not to disturb the wildlife as it may “cause them to leave warm-water sites that help them cope with cold temperatures.”