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Local manatees successfully braving the cold

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February 19, 2013 Environment

Manatees gather in the Three Sisters Springs Sanctuary just north of Tampa in 2010.

In 2010, when the water temperature in North Central Florida dropped into the 40s local manatees struggled to survive.

Ivan Vicente, visitor services specialist for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, said during the 2010 winter over 500 manatees perished because of low water temperature.

The recent drop in temperature has many wondering if it could happen again.

But, according to Vicente, there is no concern for the manatees safety this year. They are enjoying the warmer water in Citrus County and have no signs of stress.

Casey Christ wrote this story online.

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About Leanna Scachetti

Leanna is a reporter who can be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news@wuft.org.

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