Manatees in Popular Culture
The manatee has not trouble finding their place in popular culture. This includes legends, history, books, and films. One of the oldest legends is that the manatee is the protector of mermaids in the waters. Therefore they were to be protected in some areas.
There is information to suggest many types of Indian tribes killed the manatee for food and they would engage in dancing rituals to show their thanks for the benefit from these animals. They also would grind up bones from the manatee as a source of medicine. It was used to treat asthma and ear problems.
In Africa, there are legends that include the manatee showing nothing but honor and respect. According to these legends, the manatee was once human. However, it choose to move to the waters in order to be a protector of it. This was a sacrifice so that other humans would have the water to use as well as animals in it that they could use for food.
Throughout history there have been many connections of the manatees to wisdom. It isn’t really known where this comes from though. It is believed that they are among the oldest creatures in the waters where many of these villagers lived. Therefore they assumed they were the wisest in the waters since they were able to survive beyond all others.
There are many great books out there about the manatee as well. They include The Vanishing Manatee that was released in 1990 and To the Rescue which came out in 2001. These books and others can be found online and in local libraries. You can also buy them from some zoos and ecological centers in the gift shops.
One of the most amazing things about the Manatee’s in Florida is that people can actually swim with them in designated areas. For those that are passionate about these animals it is a once in a lifetime chance that they will never forget. It also helps to build a strong bond between them and humans. Many individuals have created documentaries as well as written books about their experience with this.
Unfortunately, the manatee hasn’t become a cartoon character in a Disney film or other similar type of programming. This is likely due to the very unusual look of the manatee. While it isn’t one that is considered to be cute and adorable, it is certainly original. Pictures that you see of these animals are nothing compared to when you see them moving in person.
However, there is an absolutely amazing documentary about the manatee: The Forgotten Mermaid (2010). It will cover all of the theories about manatees, what we know for certain, and what we still are trying to figure out. There is amazing footage included of manatees in their natural environment. This will be a great opportunity to learn a great deal about the manatee.
It can be a vacation of a lifetime for you and your family to experience as well. Many families have been taking the time to view the manatees as they migrate to Florida for many generations. It is also a great way to spread the word about what these animals need in order to survive.
Among the most popular rescue centers for them is Sea World. There is one located in both Florida and California. They strive to educate the public about the various needs and aspects of the manatee. They also try to rehabilitate them and release them back out to the wild rather than having them remain in captivity.
