GULF SHORES, Ala. — Although graceful and intriguing, it’s hard to believe manatees are an important resource for the Gulf Coast.

The marine mammals, mostly known to exist at the southern tip of Florida, are not usually spotted along our coast line but are present in Alabama waters.

“Manatees may not be spotted regularly because they are difficult to see,” Ruth H. Carmichael, senior marine scientist at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. “Although they are large, they are slow moving, can remain underwater for extended periods, do not have any body parts that break the surface when they swim, such as a dorsal fin, and are very stealthy swimmers.”

Carmichael, who also serves as an assistant professor of marine science at the University of South Alabama, said these contributing factors, along with the turbid waters of the Gulf Coast, make manatees mysterious animals.

But the DISL is working to gather information on the species commonly known as sea cows.

Growing to be 10 to 15 feet long and weighing 1,000 to 2,500 pounds, manatees are important to the ecosystem because of their diet. Manatees, being herbivores, consume up to 100 pounds of aquatic plants in a day.

“Manatees are important consumers, meaning they help recycle nutrients in marine ecosystems,” Carmichael said. “They help keep waterways clear of what might otherwise be nuisance vegetation.”

Understanding manatees is crucial to protecting them and harboring them here on the Gulf Coast.

The DISL is calling on coastal residents to keep their eyes open to help them collect data on manatees.

“DISL and Wildlife Trust in Florida collaborated to start the Mobile Manatees Sighting Network, the first formal network dedicated to receiving and tracking manatee sightings in Alabama waters,” Carmichael said.

Information gathered will lead to the understanding of where and how manatees use local habitat and food resources, Carmichael said.

“We hope to apply this information to inform conservation and management (agencies) and increase public awareness of the presence of manatees in local waters,” Carmichael said. “Boat strikes are the number one cause of human-related deaths to manatees. The best way to help is to boat with caution.”

DISL research technician Claire Pabody explained from 1985 to 2006, before the network was established, there were only 156 sightings of manatees. Over the past two years the new sighting network has noted 200 manatees spotted.

“The sighting network relies on sighting information from the community to help us track the movement and distribution of these animals,” Pabody said.

Carmichael explained immediate reporting is crucial to collecting accurate data or possibly saving the life of a manatee. Most sightings occur between April and November. If a manatee is observed locally this time of the year it is probably suffering from cold stress and is in danger.

“Immediate attention is needed to assess the animals condition and determine if a relocation is necessary,” Carmichael said.

Along with offering assistance with observations, it is important to also be mindful when using waterways and experiencing a manatee encounter.

“We ask people to observe these animals respectfully when they encounter them in the wild,” Pabody said. “Please stay 100 feet away from them and do not chase, feed, water or swim with them as that changes their natural behavior and is considered harassment by the federal government.”

To report a sighting call the toll free number, 1-866-493-5803 or e-mail manatee@disl.org.

You can also make a report or learn more about manatees at manatee.disl.org.