Knowing the danger of disturbing Manatees in heat, one might think folks would exercise caution and avoid these sessions. But I had the unfortunate opportunity to witness what happens when someone takes a 35 lb kayak up against 6000-8000 lbs of hormonally crazed sea mammals. On a watch session to protect the sanctuaries last week, a new volunteer ignores our repeated warnings to steer clear of a group of love starved Manatee near one of the warm springs. Instead of giving the group a wide berth, this person choses instead to paddle right up into the middle of the whole shebang.
An eruption of Manatee tails and bodies catapults paddler and kayak a few feet up into the air. Among a tempest of thrashing tails, the kayak flips and its occupant is thrown for a swim with the group of lustful lovers. Lucky for the kayaker, members of our watch group are able to pull them (uninjured thankfully) free of the pack. Maintaining a Manatee free buffer zone, we also recover the vessel and the jetsam and flotsam that flies out during the upheaval. With the help of a nearby Tour Boat operator we get the mis-guided paddler back into their boat and send them home to dry out.
In closing, I want to thank Matt and Sherry. They have been kind enough to chauffeur me around to nearby attractions during the last few weeks allowing me to nap in the backseat while they drive. I get to recover from all that paddling and enjoy the holiday decorations and scenery at the same time. Here are photos from our excursions.
Great stories…you’re so good weaving humor into your narratives! Love the picture of you and Stormy in front of the Christmas tree. I know this is a hard time for you. When you need an emotional lift, please remember that there are many people who have you in their thoughts and prayers. God bless.
Marcia in Seaford
Hi Marcia, I can’t thank you enough for your encouragement. I hope that your holidays are filled with blessings and Love.
Manatee porn, a new first for me! Thanks everso. Wishing you the merriest of Christmas fun and friendship! Best, JimE.
Hahaha! Always trying to be on the cutting edge. All the best to you and Tami!
Matt and I have enjoyed our time with you in and out of the water! And now whenever I hear that Christmas tune it will conjure up scenes of manatee mating madness!!
LOL – I didn’t mean to ruin that song for you 🙂 Looking forward to many more water adventures with you both!
Merry Christmas. So happy to see Matt and Sherry are there too. We enjoyed meeting them in SD.
Definitely a lot of underwater activity! We kept waiting for the camera to dip into the water.
Wish we were there as well. Always Enjoy your adventures.
Wow – it would be very awesome if you guys were here. I was afraid to see what was happening under the water 🙂
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