WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — Florida recorded 628 manatee deaths in 2025, according to preliminary data from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. While the statewide toll is alarming, Brevard County topped the list with 118 fatalities, making it the deadliest region for these gentle giants.

Other counties also saw notable losses:

Palm Beach County: 7 deathsIndian River County: 1 deathOkeechobee County: 0 deathsMartin County: 9 deathsSt. Lucie County: 4 deaths

View the full list here:

According to the findings, human-related causes remain a major threat. Watercraft collisions killed 97 manatees statewide, making boating the leading human factor. Other hazards included flood gates and canal locks, nine deaths, and miscellaneous human-related incidents, 9 deaths. Natural causes also played a role, with cold stress claiming 33 lives and other natural factors contributing to 63 deaths. Alarmingly, 135 perinatal deaths were recorded, underscoring the vulnerability of calves.

FWC officials stress that while the numbers are stark, they don’t tell the full story. 232 carcasses were unrecovered, and 40 cases were classified as undetermined, often due to decomposition.

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The five-year average for manatee mortality is 719 deaths annually, meaning 2025’s total falls below that benchmark, according to the FWC. However, the number is still higher than 2024.

Wildlife officials urge residents and visitors alike: slow down, stay alert, and help protect these iconic creatures when boating in Florida.