Quick answer
Manatees are native to North America and South America. Warm Atlantic coasts, rivers, and estuaries from the southeastern United States through the Caribbean to northern Brazil.
Native range
Warm Atlantic coasts, rivers, and estuaries from the southeastern United States through the Caribbean to northern Brazil.
Continents and countries
Manatees occur across North America and South America. Local populations depend on intact habitat, prey or food plants, and freedom from persecution.
Habitat types
Warm rivers, estuaries, and shallow coasts provide shelter and feeding grounds. Seasonal movement may follow rains, prey migrations, or breeding cycles.
Range changes
Historic range may exceed current distribution. Habitat loss, hunting, and climate shifts continue to affect where manatees persist today.
FAQs
Where do manatees live in the wild?
Warm Atlantic coasts, rivers, and estuaries from the southeastern United States through the Caribbean to northern Brazil.
What do manatees eat?
They feed on herbivore (seagrass and water plants), varying by season and local habitat.
Are manatees endangered?
Manatees are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
How big is a manatee?
Adults weigh about 500 kg and reach roughly 3 m long.