Filming these Endangered Florida Manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris) was like a dream! A great example of how luck often plays into the successes and failures of a wildlife photographer, as it has been a warm winter in Florida and this meant that only a week before my arrival, the manatees had not yet travelled to the warm springs where they could be filmed. I was panicked during the days leading up to my flight, but luck was on my side. On the second day of filming, the water was as clear as could be (another chance event) and the skies were overcast (better lighting). What I managed to film exceeded any hopes I had prior to departure! A couple of things to note: almost every single manatee bears the tell-tale scars of a boat collision, some very serious. After witnessing what it's like boating in the area myself, it is clear that collisions with manatees are as avoidable as driving your car into a tree, you need only watch where you are going. Also, as seen in my interactions with the manatees, there's no need to pursue or touch them--if you're patient and respectful, they will often come to see you! These are wild animals only just barely surviving the frigid winter temperatures; the last thing they need is further harassment by people. If you're lucky to see them in the wild, enjoy the experience passively. It's much better that way! Filmed (in 4K resolution) and edited by Ryan M. Bolton, MSc The Art of Conservation © Ryan M. Bolton All imagery available for purchase. Please contact at www.artofconservation.ca/RMBolton
Endangered Florida Manatees in pristine water! Crystal River, FL HD video - YouTube | |
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Travel & Events | Upload TimePublished on 24 Jan 2015 |
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