Frequently Asked Questions


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Protection

Q. Where did the word "manatee" come from?
A.

The name manatee comes from the Haitian word “manati.” The scientific genus name Trichechus is Latin for hair.
Q. Why are manatees called "sea cows?
A.

"Sea cow" is a common term for manatees and dugongs. This name likely comes from the fact that manatees are herbivores (plant-eaters), as are cows.

 

 

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