FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute monthly newsletter

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page. 2018 Manatee Synoptic Survey FWRI and several partners reported a preliminary count of 6,131 manatees in Florida waters after conducting a synoptic survey in early January.  Synoptic surveys are aerial surveys that cover manatee wintering habitats in Florida. A team of 15 observers from 10 organizations counted 3,731 manatees on Florida’s east coast and 2,400 manatees on the west coast of the state.  Information about manatee distribution, including the use of warm-water aggregation sites, underscores how important these warm-water sites are to the species in Florida. FWC will continue to work diligently with our partners to support the long-term viability of these habitats and the well-being of the Florida manatee population.   Photo taken under USFWS permit # MA773494 New on MyFWC.com/Research Reported Fish Kills Manatee Mortality Right Whale Calving Season 2017-2018 Red Tide Current Status Stone Crab Catch Data Wildlife Health Externships and Volunteer Opportunities Internship Opportunities Synoptic Surveys Site Selection and Monitoring Methods Social Media Corner YouTube Spotlight: With several different research groups within the Apalachicola lab, staff strive to provide accurate and consistent data that could influence management decisions.    Flickr Feature:Florida has 50 native species of snakes and four nonnative species. From Facebook: A North Atlantic right whale was spotted off the coast of Naples. If you see a large whale, we are asking that you report it immediately to 1-877-WHALE-HELP  (1-877-942-5343). Instagram Favorite A biologist with FWRI's sea turtle program picked up two cold-stunned sea turtles. Over 900 cold-stunned sea turtles were rescued statewide during the cold snap that began January 3rd. Staff were focused on tagging and releasing the turtles once the water warmed.  If you see distressed or injured wildlife, call the Wildlife Alert Hotline, (888)-404-3922. Our Mission Through effective research and technical knowledge, we provide timely information and guidanceto protect, conserve, and manage Florida's fish and wildlife resources.

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