We see a lot of concern about barnacles on #manatees — and we love how much you care. 🩶 Manatees that spend time in the Gulf often pick up barnacles, which only thrive in #saltwater. When winter arrives, manatees move into freshwater springs to stay warm, and the barnacles naturally die off within about 7–10 days. 🗓️✔️ Those “polka dot” like spots you see afterward are just where barnacles have fallen off — totally normal and part of the process. No touching, no removing, no interference neede