SEAFWA 2018

AUTHORS: Kayla P. DaCosta, Ruth H. Carmichael – Dauphin Island Sea Lab, University of South Alabama

ABSTRACT: Florida manatees are migratory and disperse long distances, show site fidelity, occupy fragmented habitats, and are experiencing population recovery and range expansion in U.S. waters. To better understand migration and habitat use of manatees in the nGOM, satellite tags were deployed from 2009-present. During that time, 13 unique individuals were tagged for periods of 3-17 consecutive months. Data indicate that manatees using the nGOM are regular, seasonal visitors, rather than accidental strays as previously thought. Tag data have also allowed for the identification of manatee hotspots and migratory pathways throughout the nGOM. In addition to satellite tags, manatees are equipped with two sonics, one inside the satellite tag itself and another located in the tagging belt. Acoustic receivers were deployed at strategic choke points throughout Alabama and Mississippi waterways to collect data from animals that have a disconnected or malfunctioning tag. Use of these receivers has provided additional data to further corroborate results from satellite tags and fill in data gaps created by the loss or malfunction of satellite tags. Use of satellite and acoustic telemetry has provided information on the migration and habitat use of manatees that is important for the conservation and management of the species. In addition to manatee tagging, we will also be providing a brief overview of other active tagging programs based out of the Dauphin Island Sea Lab.