Manatee

A manatee is a gentle, aquatic mammal known for its large, rounded body, paddle-like flippers, and slow-moving nature. Often called "sea cows," they inhabit shallow coastal waters, rivers, and estuaries in regions like Florida, the Caribbean, and West Africa. Manatees primarily feed on sea grasses and aquatic plants, using their lips to grasp vegetation. They are herbivores, have no natural predators, and are considered vulnerable due to habitat loss and boat collisions. Manatees play a vital role in their ecosystems by helping maintain healthy aquatic plant communities.