Overview

• The police posted a social media video assuring the public that the manatees are healthy and requesting no further non-emergency calls
• Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute confirmed that large mating herds near beaches are normal and not a sign of distress
• Manatees gather promiscuously in shallow waters with multiple males pursuing a single female without rivalry
• Breeding groups can remain together for hours or even days without needing human assistance
• Officials warned that approaching, touching or disturbing the animals is illegal and could pose risks to both humans and manatees