South Carolina, October 18, 2025
News Summary
South Carolina has achieved a remarkable milestone with 245 recorded manatee sightings this year, surpassing previous records. This increase in sightings highlights both growing manatee activity and heightened community awareness about these marine creatures. Manatees typically migrate north from Florida to South Carolina for the summer months, favoring sheltered coastal waters for feeding. Community involvement is essential in tracking these gentle giants, as the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources encourages public participation in reporting sightings and protecting these endearing animals.
South Carolina has reported a record-breaking 245 manatee sightings as of October 16, 2025. This figure surpasses all previous years, indicating increased manatee activity and growing public awareness regarding these gentle giants of the sea. Manatees typically begin arriving in South Carolina around May, traveling north from Florida as the coastal waters warm up, where they spend the summer and early fall in protected waters.
These marine mammals can weigh over a ton and grow up to 13 feet long. Manatees favor sheltered, shallow areas such as marinas, inlets, and estuaries for feeding, and they can thrive in both salt and fresh water, making specific locations ideal for abundant sightings. Notable spotting areas in Beaufort County include Broad Creek, Skull Creek, Broad River, Shelter Cove Marina, and Harbour Town Marina. Reports have also indicated manatees spotted in the Pee Dee region, with a confirmed sighting occurring in Murrells Inlet in June.
By late October and into November, manatees begin their migration south back to Florida, seeking warmer waters that surpass the survival threshold of 68 degrees Fahrenheit. It is unusual to see manatees in South Carolina waters after December, and these occurrences could indicate a problem for the animal. Notably, the reported sightings do not necessarily reflect unique individuals since some manatees may be spotted multiple times, and previously recorded manatees can also be identified through submitted photos and messages from past years.
The importance of community involvement has been emphasized, as public participation is encouraged for better tracking and data collection. Residents are invited to submit sighting photos and locations to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), which collaborates with Florida partners for ongoing manatee tracking and research initiatives.
Documented manatee sightings in South Carolina date back to at least the 1850s; nevertheless, these animals comprise a small fraction of the estimated 6,600 manatees in the U.S., most of which remain in Florida year-round. The SCDNR has issued a clear message to the public: if a manatee is spotted in South Carolina waters after December or if an injured or distressed manatee is found, it is imperative to contact the SCDNR hotline at 1-800-922-5431.
Manatees are protected under federal law, including the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act, which prohibit harassment, hunting, and harm to these animals. The primary threats facing manatees include boat strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, and harmful algal blooms known as red tides. The SCDNR emphasizes the importance of public vigilance while on the water to safeguard manatees from potential human-related dangers.
FAQ Section
How many manatee sightings have been reported in South Carolina in 2025?
South Carolina has reported a record-breaking 245 manatee sightings as of October 16, 2025.
When do manatees typically arrive in South Carolina?
Manatees typically begin arriving in South Carolina around May, traveling north from Florida as coastal waters warm up.
What are manatees’ typical habitats in South Carolina?
Manatees favor sheltered, shallow areas such as marinas, inlets, and estuaries for feeding.
What should someone do if they spot a manatee in distress?
If a manatee is spotted in South Carolina waters after December or if there is an injured or distressed manatee, the public is urged to contact the SCDNR hotline at 1-800-922-5431.
Which federal laws protect manatees?
Manatees are protected under federal law, including the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act, which prohibits harassment, hunting, and harm.
Key Features of the Reported Manatee Sightings
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sighting Count | 245 sightings as of October 16, 2025 |
| Arrival Period | May through early fall |
| Migratory Behavior | Head south in late October and November |
| Habitat Preferences | Sheltered, shallow areas including marinas and estuaries |
| Hotline for Distressed Manatees | 1-800-922-5431 |
| Protection Status | Protected under federal law |
| Estimate of U.S. Population | Approximately 6,600 manatees |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Health Assessment Launched for Manatees Near Hilton Head Island
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Record Number of Manatees in South Carolina
- Wikipedia: Manatee
- Explore Beaufort SC: Record Number of Manatees in 2025
- Google Search: Manatees South Carolina 2025
- ABC News 4: Record Number of Manatees Spotted
- Google Scholar: Manatee Conservation
- WTOC: Over 230 Manatees Sighted
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Manatee
- WSAV: Migrating Manatees in Hilton Head
- Google News: Manatees in South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
