The manatee ( Richechus ) is a marine mammal that belongs to the order of the Sirenidae and to the Triquid family. They have an egg shape, fins and a flat tail. Additionally, they are also known as sea cows due to their large stature, laid-back nature, and propensity to be eaten by other animals. However, despite the name, they are more related to elephants than to cows.
Manatee can measure up to four meters and weigh about 600 kilograms . Also, although they seem like very heavy creatures, they have the ability to swim quickly and gracefully. Generally, manatees swim around 8 kilometers per hour, although they can reach 24 kilometers per hour when they feel threatened and need to flee from a predator.
There are three species of manatees: the Amazonian manatee ( Trichechus inunguis ); the West Indian manatee and the American manatee ( Trichechus manatus ) and the African manatee ( Trichechus senegalensis ). Their names indicate the regions in which they inhabit. In addition, these marine mammals usually remain in the rivers, seas and oceans of various countries such as Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil or the United States.
On the other hand, these animals usually swim alone or in pairs, since they are not territorial and do not follow any leader. So if there is a group of sea cows they are probably sharing an area with a large food supply or it is a mating herd.
If you want to find out more about manatees or sea cows, take a look at the following gallery. Without a doubt, these marine animals are impressive.
