While tourists flock to the beaches this spring break, Florida’s springs have plenty of sunshine and swimming—and way cooler wildlife than Chad from Northwestern. Here’s a guide to drivable springs from the Tampa Bay area for day trips and camping.
manatees
Posted inNews & Views
Florida officials ask local perverts to stop interrupting horny manatees
‘If you see a manatee mating herd, observe respectfully from a distance. Do NOT touch.’
Posted inNews & Views
Deal reached to upgrade habitat protections for Florida manatees
A record 1,101 manatee deaths were reported in Florida waters in 2021.
Posted inNews & Views
After last year’s record deaths, Florida Gov. DeSantis says he’ll spend $30 million to support manatees
The number of deaths was down from 694 at the same point in 2021, when a record 1,101 manatee deaths were reported
Posted inNews & Views
FWC says it’ll probably need to feed manatees again next winter
But officials hope to stop the unique trial feeding program before it becomes a long-term solution.
Posted inArts & Entertainment
Clearwater Marine Aquarium plans to turn Winter’s old habitat into new manatee rescue and rehab center
CMA is currently raising funds to build a new $10 million manatee hospital in the late ‘Dolphin Tale’ star’s spot.
Posted inNews & Views
Florida manatees are on the move, and officials are asking boaters to stay alert
Seasonal manatee zones, requiring boaters to slow down in certain areas, go into effect April 1 and continue through Nov. 15.
Posted inArts & Entertainment
One year after 12 rays died, ZooTampa will reopen stingray touch tank
The future of the interactive habitat has been unclear to the masses— until now.
Posted inNews & Views
Live stream shows record number of manatees at Florida’s Blue Spring State Park
The park counted 663 manatees Tuesday.
Posted inNews & Views
Following record die-off, wildlife officials share unprecedented plan to feed Florida manatees
While federal officials have to share the scope of their feeding plan, they did remind the public that feeding wild manatees is illegal.