Contributing Writer
Capt. Cathy Eagle
As of late February 2026, over 58 manatees have died in Lee County alone since January 1. The surge in fatalities is directly linked to cold stress following recent frigid weather. Cold stress occurs when water temperatures drop below 68 degrees Fahrenheit. This causes fatal issues for our manatees who spend their winters here in Southwest Florida. Manatees are here from November to April for the warm waters. However, these cold spells can cause fatal stress on the species.
As of yesterday, February 26, the water temperature in Pine Island Sound was around 57 degrees. My usual manatee hole on the east side of Cayo Costa in Pelican Bay, was empty of manatees. They had to move to warmer waters. Their journey would take them to the Fort Myers Power Plant on the Orange River in Lee County. That’s about 35 miles by water from Cayo Costa.
Manatees typically swim at a relaxed pace of 3 to 5 miles per hour. Although, they can reach speeds up to 15-20 miles per hour in short bursts when fleeing the cold waters. They are strong swimmers despite their size. They use their powerful, paddle-shaped tails to navigate shallow coastal waters and rivers, including the Caloosahatchee River here in Lee County, which leads them to the Florida Power and Light plant which typically releases warm water from their generators. The manatees will migrate all the way from Cayo Costa, up the Caloosahatchee River, to the warm waters generated by Florida Power and Light.
Unfortunately, when the manatees needed the warm waters the most, Florida Power and Light shut down. It is a critical warm water refuge for manatees. A major investigation is ongoing regarding whether the temporary, unplanned shutdown of the Florida Power and Light plant contributed to the high death toll. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission as well as the Tampa Zoo are on sight.
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Captain Cathy Eagle has spent over 45 years boating on our local waters. As a professional Charter Captain, she specializes in Dolphin and Nature Tours. You can reach her at CaptainCathy.com or call /text 239 994-2572. Welcome aboard!
Capt. Cathy Eagle
Capt. Cathy's Boat Tours
Matlacha, Florida
(239) 994-2572
www.CaptainCathy.com
