It might feel harmless to touch a manatee, but it’s actually illegal, and for good reason🥹 First, when people touch manatees, it can distrupt their natural behavior and cause stress that burns critical energy reserves. Also, when manatees get used to people touching them (or feeding them), they may start approaching boats. That’s dangerous, because boat strikes are their leading cause of injury and death. This puts them at serious risk. Love them from a distance. The best way to protect manatees is to let them stay wild. 💙 Follow along for more nature & adventure content!🩵🐬🐊🦦🐋🦈🏝️ manatees ocean freediving florida conservation LTKstorytime LTKTravel LTKvlog