Experience the most incredible manatee encounter in Xcalak! Immerse yourself in crystal clear waters and discover the majesty of these beautiful creatures in their natural environment. In Xcalak, we offer you the unique opportunity to dive with manatees in complete freedom, respecting their habitat and without interfering with their natural behavior.
General characteristics
One of the most notable characteristics of manatees is their size. These herbivorous animals can reach lengths of up to 4 to 6 meters and weigh more than 500 kilograms, since they are capable of eating 50kg of seagrass per day. Its body is adapted for aquatic life, having a tail flattened horizontally in the shape of a spatula and two “hands” with which it propels itself through the pastures.
The skin of the Manatees es thick and wrinkled, giving them protection against scratches and abrasions. Also, your skin has the ability to change color due to the presence of microorganisms that live on it. These microorganisms can give the skin shades ranging from dark gray to light brown.
A crucial physiological characteristic of manatees is their respiratory system adapted to aquatic life. Unlike other mammals, manatees have a specialized way of breathing. They own a couple of nasal holes, preventing their head from rising completely out of the water. Partially submerged, this prevents the head from rising completely out of the water.
Diet
They are herbivorous animals and feed mainly on aquatic plants, such as algae and sea grass. Their jaws are adapted for chewing and grinding plant fibers, and they have leaf-shaped molar teeth that help them in this process.
Reproduction and breeding
Manatees, those adorable aquatic mammals, also have a fascinating breeding process. Manatee reproduction involves a series of key stages in the life of these animals.
Manatee mating season generally occurs during the spring and summer months, when environmental conditions are most favorable. During this time, males compete for the attention of females and courtship rituals that include vocalizations and physical displays occur. Once the female has chosen her mate, mating occurs.
Gestation in manatees lasts approximately 12 to 14 months. During this period, the female is in charge of the nutrition and development of the fetus in her womb. Like other aquatic mammals, manatees give birth in the water. Calving generally occurs in shallow, safe water.
Baby Manatees
The newborn, known as a calf or calf manatee, weighs around 30 to 35 kilograms and is adorable in appearance. Immediately after birth, the mother helps the calf to the surface so that he can take his first breath. The calf latches on to its mother’s teat and begins to feed on her milk, which is rich in fat and nutrients for healthy growth.
During the first years of life, the mother provides care and protection for the calf. She accompanies him on his first swims and teaches him the skills necessary to survive in her aquatic environment. Baby manatees are dependent on their mother for approximately two years, during which time they learn to forage and interact with other members of their species.
Manatee rearing is an essential process for the growth and survival of the species. Maternal care and attention ensures that the calves have a healthy start in life and gain the skills necessary to become adult manatees. Conserving these wonderful animals and their environment is crucial to ensuring a prosperous future for manatees and generations to come.
Manatees in Xcalak
Thanks to the conservation efforts of the Parque Nacional Arrecifes de Xcalak, manatees are being protected and cared for in their natural habitat. These majestic marine creatures benefit from measures put in place to preserve their environment and promote their well-being.
The Parque Nacional Arrecifes de Xcalak plays a fundamental role in the protection of manatees by prohibiting feeding and establishing regulations to avoid direct interaction with them. This responsible conservation guarantees that manatees can live in total freedom and without depending on food from humans.
The preservation of the manatees in Xcalak is not only crucial for their survival, but also allows visitors to enjoy the wonder of observing these creatures in their natural state. It is an unparalleled experience that teaches us about the importance of protecting and respecting marine life.
We appreciate and recognize the commitment of the Xcalak Reef National Park for its work of conservation, education and promotion of sustainable practices. By following these initiatives, we can enjoy the beauty of manatees and ensure their existence for future generations.
Dive with Manatees in Xcalak
Imagine swimming alongside these peaceful and gentle creatures as you explore the underwater wonders of Xcalak. Our expert guides will take you to the best places where you can meet these magnificent marine mammals and enjoy a close encounter with them, without disturbing their routine or feeding them.
Come to Xcalak and witness the beauty and grace of manatees in their purest state. Book your diving experience now and let yourself be carried away by the emotion of sharing the water with these amazing marine creatures!
