Where Ya Going Ilya?
October 09, 2009 - by Molly Mann
Though the story has been eclipsed by other news, I've been following the progress of Ilya, a Florida manatee who has found his way into New York Harbor despite the tendency of manatees to remain south of Georgia. Biologists are trying to find Ilya, entice him with lettuce and fresh drinking water, and bring him home. Manatees require water that is at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit, so Ilya needs to end his northward jaunt before full winter arrives.
Manatees were once believed to be mythical sirens or mermaids. Their cachet has fallen dramatically, however; they're now on the endangered species list. Despite the fact that they have no natural enemies and can live to be 60 years old, human infringement on their habitat and pollution have threatened manatees to the point of near extinction. Historically, manatees have been hunted for their skins and meat. Fortunately, since protections were put in place in 1973, the estimated population along the U.S. coast has risen to 3,800 from 1,700 and the Obama administration announced on Tuesday, September 29, 2009 that it would strengthen these Ford-era regulations.
But saving the manatee is still a daunting task. The species is under constant assault from motor boats; 74 have died in collisions this year alone. They also have a very slow reproductive rate, which is why it's important to carefully guard every single one. That makes Ilya, who is distinguished by two scars from boats on his tail and head, important to the species' survival.
Visit the Save the Manatee Club web site to get involved with endangered species support and be sure to look out for Ilya in the news! Let's hope the big guy makes it home safe.
