Manatees Spotted Across the Southeast: Surprising Sightings Beyond Florida

As of October 2025, manatees, the gentle giants of the waterways, are no longer confined to their traditional Florida stronghold. According to recent research, these slow-moving mammals are now being spotted across the southeastern United States, with sightings reported in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Mississippi.

Utilizing tagged manatees and reports from the public, researchers have discovered that these marine mammals are capable of traveling long distances, often venturing far beyond their Florida homes. While manatees generally prefer to drift through the water and graze on aquatic plants at their own leisurely pace, they have demonstrated an ability to cover significant territory.

The expansion of manatee habitats is likely due to the warming of coastal waters, a consequence of climate change. As temperatures rise, more manatees are finding suitable environments outside of Florida, allowing them to explore new regions and giving wildlife enthusiasts across the Southeast a rare chance to catch a glimpse of these unique creatures.

In Alabama, for instance, manatees have been spotted in Mobile Bay, with one individual, named Bama, becoming the first manatee tagged in the state. Similarly, Georgia's coastal regions and blackwater rivers, such as the Satilla and Altamaha, have become havens for these gentle giants, who can be seen grazing in salt marshes or swimming in the state's waterways.