The last few days may have been colder than what Volusia County residents and visitors are used to, but the winter weather can’t stop one of the area’s most beloved traditions — seeing the manatees flock to Blue Spring State Park.
Those who braved the below-freezing wind chills and temperatures Monday morning, Feb. 2, and drove to the park in Orange City found out that over 900 manatees had made their way to the spring’s relatively warm 72-degree water seeking refuge from the cold.
Blue Spring State Park announced the manatee count on its Facebook page Monday afternoon.
The popular natural event draws large crowds during the winter season, which often means big lines and crowds at the boardwalk trying to catch a glimpse and some pictures of the iconic sea cows.
If you have never been to Blue Spring, or are planning another visit this year, here are some tips to make the trip easier.
Where is Blue Spring State Park?
Blue Spring State Park is located at 2100 W. French Ave. in Orange City. The drive from Daytona Beach is approximately 30-35 minutes west on Interstate 4.
What time does Blue Spring State Park open?
According to the state park’s website, gates open at 8 a.m., closing at sundown. Blue Spring is open year-round.
How much does Blue Spring State Park admission cost?
Whether you drive, bike or walk to Blue Spring to see the manatees, there will be a small entry fee.
Here is the breakdown, according to the park’s website:
Where can I see the manatees at Blue Spring State Park?
The sight of hundreds of manatees under the crystal-clear waters of Blue Spring are always a thrill to both first timers and returning fans.
That view is visible from the park’s boardwalk — stretching a third of a mile from the St. Johns River to the headspring.
“The boardwalk provides a wonderful opportunity for safely observing the manatees,” according to the park’s website. “Visitors can see manatees socializing and mothers nursing their small calves, without influencing the manatees’ natural behavior or bothering them.”
Why do manatees flock to warm water like Blue Spring?
Manatees cannot sustain water temperatures 68 degrees or colder for long periods of time, according to Blue Spring. Due to their very slow metabolism and only about an inch of fat (though they tend to look “blubbery”), the sea cows depend on warm waters to survive.
During the winter months, manatees are prone to cold stress syndrome, which is comparable to hypothermia, pneumonia or frostbite in humans and can make them very sick.
Where can I find out more information about Blue Spring manatees?
Visit floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/blue-spring-state-park or call 386-775-3663 to learn more about Blue Spring State Park and the manatees.
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Over 900 manatees flock to Blue Spring State Park; how to see them
Reporting by Brenno Carillo, Daytona Beach News-Journal / The Daytona Beach News-Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
