"Endangered Florida Manatees: A Struggle for Survival"

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is reviewing the status of the West Indian manatee, including populations in Florida and Puerto Rico, after a recent manatee die-off and petitions from environmental organizations. Despite being reclassified as "threatened" in 2017, manatees still face challenges such as boat strikes, habitat loss, and cold stress. Water quality issues, including algal blooms, remain a top concern, as they can cut off the manatees' food supply. Conservation efforts, including rescuing orphaned calves and rehabilitating them for release, are ongoing to help protect and preserve the manatee population.