Residents along Dog River in Mobile have been treated to an unusual sight this season: a breeding herd of eight to 10 manatees that has settled into the waterway and stuck around far longer than the gentle marine mammals typically do.
Stephanie Eades Williamson, who has lived on Dog River for more than 19 years, says the Manatee Sighting Network helped her identify the group as a breeding herd. “Usually they are just traveling through and we see maybe four or five at a time,” Williamson said. “This is different — in large numbers as well as how much time they are spending.”
A Well-Known Manatee Named Bama
Elizabeth Hieb with the Manatee Sighting Network says the organization believes the herd centers on a focal female surrounded by male suitors — a classic mating formation. Based on photos and videos submitted by residents, the network identified the focal female as a well-known manatee named Bama.
“Bama has a really distinct triangular scar on her left side,” Hieb said. “We know her quite well. She is the first manatee that our program ever tagged in Alabama waters back in 2009.”
What to Do If You Spot a Manatee
The Manatee Sighting Network encourages anyone who sees a manatee to report it and give the animal space. Reports can be made by calling the 24-hour line at 1-866-493-5803, submitting a form at manatee.disl.org, or emailing [email protected]. The same phone line should be used to report injured, stranded, or deceased manatees in Alabama and Mississippi.