MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR MANATEES
Crystal River is best known as “The Home of the Manatees” so we have a little insider knowledge on our favorite friends.
Also known as “sea cows,” these herbivores usually spend up to eight hours a day grazing on eelgrass and other aquatic plants, consuming anywhere from 10 percent of their body weight in aquatic vegetation daily. That is over 100 lbs per day, per manatee!
When you donate to Save Crystal River, you help Feed the Manatees as your funds go toward restoring and protecting their primary food source: eelgrass! Donations also support eelgrass feedings to manatees in rehabilitation centers.
Gift a Manatee Munchies Lunchbox and receive a certificate of appreciation to show someone how much you care!
DONATE TO FEED MANATEES
Thank you for saving the aquatic life in Crystal River and protecting Florida’s waterways for future generations.
Donations go toward all efforts in feeding the manatees. This includes the planting of eelgrass, gathering of grasses and grass feeding efforts to manatees in rescue, protection, and rehabilitation facilities.
How are tasty “snacks” gathered to Feed the Manatees?
Just like trees, eelgrass sheds leaves. Boat propellers also “cut” the grass, which must be collected as well.
The surface skimmer traverses the waters of Crystal River and collects the free-floating eelgrass leaves, which will be available to feed manatees in other locations outside of Crystal River.
In addition, floating eelgrass plants are used in education programs for schools, teaching future generations about this valuable and necessary natural resource!
MANATEE FEVER
Manatee Fever is an art movement created by Feed the Manatees and Save Crystal River, to bring awareness and funding to save the manatees in Crystal River, the original “Home of the Manatees”. You can now create your own custom-designed manatee! All proceeds from the art installation are used to restore or protect manatees and Crystal River.
Crystal River is known as the original “Home of the Manatees.” Manatees are a vulnerable creature and must be looked after and protected. Feed the Manatees and Save Crystal River are committed to restore and protect the beauty and health of Crystal River and Florida’s waterways for future generations.
THE “CANVAS”
Florida manatees are large, aquatic mammals that are native to Florida. Adult manatees are typically 9-10 feet long from snout to tail and weigh around 1,000 pounds; however, they may grow to over 13 feet long and weigh more than 3,500 pounds. The surface of a manatee mold provides an excellent canvas for an artist.
BE A PART OF HISTORY
Corporations, private donors or individuals may sponsor a manatee to be painted by an artist with the design of their choice.*
Be among the first to own a customized manatee, in time for the 100th anniversary of Crystal River in July 2023! This is a limited time offer; only a few commemorative manatees are left! Manatees are displayed around the city, or at a location selected by the sponsor.
To learn more about the program and to become a sponsor, please inquire via email to info@savecrystalriver.com
*All proceeds from the art installation will be used to Feed the Manatees, restore and protect Crystal River. Designs must be approved by Save Crystal River Board of Directors.
