It is illegal to touch, feed, harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, annoy or molest manatees. The marine mammal protection act of 1972 and the endangered species act of 1973 both make it illegal to harass, hunt, capture or kill any marine mammal, including manatees. The endangered species act forbids touching a manatee unless it touches you first, and they will let you know. Two hands are illegal. The rules are strict in homosassa, and the protection of the resident manatees is taken very seriously. So unfortunately, it is not illegal to touch a manatee, said dr. Beth brady of save the manatee club, it is illegal to disturb, harass, or annoy a manatee but there's a fine line. Manatees are protected under several laws, including the marine mammal protection act of 1972 and the endangered species act of 1973, which make it illegal to harass, hunt, capture, or kill any marine mammal, including manatees. Swim and touch manatees in florida. Learn about the laws and regulations of florida manatees before you go. Find out how to interact with manatees responsibly in the wild. It is illegal to feed, harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, annoy or molest manatees. Giving food or water to manatees, or using food or water to attract manatees. Can you get fined for touching a manatee? The florida manatee sanctuary act of 1978 prevents people from annoying, harassing, or disturbing any manatee. This means if you even touch a manatee, you could face fines and even some jail time. Manatees are also protected, which is why there are so many rules including: You can’t touch their face, chase them, or kick your feet in the water near them. And experiencing them up. Manatee mishaps touching these animals is a felony you can t afford. This platform, a digital classifieds website, has significantly changed the way people interact within their local areas. Violating the mmpa, esa, or florida’s manatee sanctuary act can result in hefty fines, legal penalties, and even imprisonment for severe offenses. Fish and wildlife service and the florida fish and wildlife conservation commission actively enforce these laws to protect manatees.
