The Florida Manatee: Biology and Conservation

by Roger L. Reep, Robert K. Bonde

"A must-read for anyone with an interest in the conservation of this important species."--Jim Valade, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Manatee Recovery Activities "Reep and Bonde, each with more than 20 years of experience researching the manatee, have produced an introduction to these secretive animals for the general reader. Covering all aspects of manatee biology, they delve into both the scientific literature and the anecdotes of fellow manatee researchers to create an entertaining and comprehensive primer on manatee biology. ?. . . Highly recommended."-- Booklist Much of what we know about manatee biology and behavior has been learned in the years after they were first declared an endangered species in 1967. Roger Reep and Robert Bonde have been at the forefront of manatee research for more than two decades.  The Florida Manatee  offers an engaging, accessible introduction to everything manatee, including communication, diet, long-distance migration, and much more.
Publication of the hardcover edition birthed a slew of national newspaper stories on manatee intelligence appearing in publications ranging from the  New York Times   to the  Pittsburgh Post-Gazette   as well as dailies throughout Florida.  The Florida Manatee   is perfect for anyone seeking the most comprehensive, up-to-date information on this fascinating marine mammal.

Genres: Science, Biology, Animals

208 pages, Paperback

First published May 20, 2006

Reviews

[James F · Rating 4 out of 5]

The manatee is surely one of the strangest of all mammals, with a unique lifestyle as an aquatic herbivore, most closely related to the elephant.

This book, while short, is very comprehensive, and very clearly written and organized. The authors, both researchers in the field, cover the evolutionary history of the Sirenidae, the unique biology of the manatee, its ecology, the threats to its survival and the ongoing efforts at conservation.

It's written in a popular style, but without becoming journalistic or engaging in "gosh-wow" effects.

[Chi Dubinski · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summarizes studies about manatee behavior, talks about rescue and conservation, and the future of manatees in the wild. Boaters in conflict with manatees in shared waterways.

[Kelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

For me, this was an awesome read. For someone who does not want in-depth information about manatee habits, territory, food, anatomy, breeding, intelligence, etc. this book will not live up to your expectations. As someone who is very interested in manatees it was a real joy to be able to read this book and become that much more educated on what manatees are really like. It's more like a textbook than anything, but I loved every minute of it.