Rare manatees are turning up along the Texas coast this summer; some are lingering in busy marinas for freshwater, prompting warnings to boaters

North America Science Mon, 31 Aug 2026 11:09:51 GMT Moderate confidence — 73/100

manatees (representative image)This summer, an unusual visitor has been making waves along the Texas coast: the Florida manatee.
Multiple sightings have been reported from Galveston to Port Mansfield, with some of the gentle giants lingering in busy harbours and marinas to drink from freshwater outflows.
As temperatures soar, wildlife officials say the warm Gulf waters are drawing these rare marine mammals farther west than usual, but their presence in high-traffic boating areas is raising concerns.

manatees (representative image)This summer, an unusual visitor has been making waves along the Texas coast: the Florida manatee.
Multiple sightings have been reported from Galveston to Port Mansfield, with some of the gentle giants lingering in busy harbours and marinas to drink from freshwater outflows.
As temperatures soar, wildlife officials say the warm Gulf waters are drawing these rare marine mammals farther west than usual, but their presence in high-traffic boating areas is raising concerns.

Sources: Times of India