Manatee Insanity: Inside the War over Florida's Most Famous Endangered Species

The quiet manatee has long been a flash point of frequent environmental debates. It is Florida's most famous endangered species and exposes the uneasy relationships between science and the law and between freedom and responsibility. Craig Pittman's book, Manatee Insanity, provides the first in-depth history of the attempts to provide legal protection for the manatee, detailing interactions with human actors.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 02 August 2022
Publisher: University Press of Florida

The quiet manatee has long been a focal point of intense environmental discussions, with its status as Florida's most famous endangered species and its highly contentious nature. These gentle giants captivate the attention of countless tourists, while also shedding light on the complex interplay between science, law, and freedom. As the debate over manatee protection intensifies, it has transformed into a fierce war, with no reporter having been more dedicated to unraveling the intricate history, culture, and science of these controversies than Craig Pittman.

Pittman, an environmental writer with a deep fascination for the uncertain future of these remarkable creatures, offers a comprehensive account of the efforts to provide legal protection for manatees in Manatee Insanity. Through his meticulous research, Pittman traces the journey of Florida's gentle giants across time and space, detailing their interactions with a diverse range of human actors. From renowned ocean explorer Jacques-Yves Cousteau to former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, from popular children's book author Dr. Seuss to a federal lawman who underwent an extraordinary undercover assignment dressed as a gorilla, Pittman's narrative is a captivating exploration of the diverse perspectives and actions surrounding manatee conservation.

In addition to providing a historical perspective, Manatee Insanity delves into the scientific complexities surrounding manatee behavior and ecology. Pittman explores the various factors that contribute to manatee deaths, including habitat loss, boat collisions, and pollution. He also sheds light on the efforts to mitigate these threats, including the establishment of protected areas, the implementation of speed limits on waterways, and the promotion of sustainable fishing practices.

Throughout his journey, Pittman emphasizes the importance of balancing the needs of humans with the conservation of these iconic creatures. He challenges the notion that manatees are a nuisance or a threat to human activities and instead presents them as valuable ambassadors for environmental awareness and conservation. Manatee Insanity serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of all living organisms and the critical role that we play in preserving the natural world for future generations.

In conclusion, Manatee Insanity is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the manatee controversy. Through the lens of Craig Pittman's diligent research and compelling storytelling, this book provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the complex relationships between science, law, freedom, and responsibility. It serves as a call to action for all of us to work together to protect these remarkable creatures and their habitats for generations to come.

Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813068848