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Description
A West Indian Manatee photographed in a crystal clear Florida spring. They come to the springs for the warmth (72F water). The water might feel warm at first, but after 4-5 hours my body was shivering so much it was hard to take photographs. I only managed a couple images with water this clear because there are so many large "Snorkel with Manatee" tours that dump 40-50 inexperienced swimmers into the water so they can stir things up and harass these endangered species. Not everyone bothers the manatee, but I witnessed more than enough harassing from swimmers who were probably not properly trained by the tour guides. Regardless it was amazing to be in the water with these gentle marine creatures.

Description
A West Indian Manatee photographed in a crystal clear Florida spring. They come to the springs for the warmth (72F water). The water might feel warm at first, but after 4-5 hours my body was shivering so much it was hard to take photographs. I only managed a couple images with water this clear because there are so many large "Snorkel with Manatee" tours that dump 40-50 inexperienced swimmers into the water so they can stir things up and harass these endangered species. Not everyone bothers the manatee, but I witnessed more than enough harassing from swimmers who were probably not properly trained by the tour guides. Regardless it was amazing to be in the water with these gentle marine creatures.