Habitat destruction and, in isolated cases, targeted killing are the main threats to the manatee population. Although figures on the total manatee population are unknown, recent studies show that the animals no longer occur in some areas of their original range. Currently, the distribution of manatees is patchy, which means that only small, isolated manatee populations remain.
According to the IUCN Red List, the total population of this South American manatee subspecies is declining and is therefore classified as endangered.
YAQU PACHA is working with PROYECTO SOTALIA in Venezuela to compile scientific information on the manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus). Projects have been carried out to study basic biological and ecological data as well as threats to the species throughout its range in Venezuela, with a particular focus on Lake Maracaibo, as this is one of the main areas where the species is found.
This herbivore is classified as critically endangered throughout Venezuela, and its population is estimated to have declined by nearly 80% as a result of hunting, bycatch, and habitat loss and destruction. In light of this problem and the data obtained, the Manatis project has made efforts to strengthen education and awareness programs and implement conservation strategies based on citizen participation—with positive results. Ecotourism, which uses manatees as a flagship species, has helped to raise awareness and foster greater understanding in communities, thereby curbing hunting.
Manatees in Lake Maracaibo, Venezuela: Research and educational activities for their protection
Summary of activities in 2022
Throughout 2021, social networks, interviews, and visits to various fishing ports on Lake Maracaibo in Venezuela made it possible to identify areas where manatees can still be observed. In particular, in the municipality in the north of the lake, in the Ciénaga de la Palmita nature reserve, where the presence of the species was confirmed, a connection was established with local fishermen in order to compile the report. throughout the year, we were able to confirm the birth of a new calf and the constant presence of a group of 8 manatees during the 12 months, a number that may be considered low, but given that it is a shrinking population. In 80% of their total national distribution, it is exceptional news and an opportunity to monitor manatees and understand the characteristics that this region of the lake offers, which are ideal for their continued existence. The notes highlight that there have been 45 manatee sightings in Venezuela and at least 15 times the individuals have been observed feeding on the coast of Ruppia maritima, which occurs in a very shallow area and the transparency of the water allows for easy observation of the individuals.
Only one accidental catch of an adult animal was reported, which was freed alive from the nets in this area.
Of the newly visited ports (5), only 4 reported sightings of manatees in 2022. The total of 9 sightings were distributed across 3 on the eastern central coast of the lake (San Timoteo), 3 in the northwestern region (San Carlos and Zapara Islands and Maracaibo City), 2 in the southwest (Puerto Concha), and 1 in the southeast.
It is worth noting that, for the second time, he was able to observe a group of manatees mating on the shore of the lake in the city of Maracaibo. This event was recorded by people in the city and widely shared on social media due to its novelty. The video shows 4 individuals, 3 of which are stalking the female manatee, one of which was a calf, considering its length. This data, together with the data collected in September 2021 on the first record of courtship and mating in Lake Maracaibo, will be recorded in a scientific note.
In general, the few reports in the lake may be due to the low density of the species, the difficulty of observing them, errors in the survey, or a combination of all these factors. Fishermen often have more information about bycatch, mortality, and events, but since this is a prohibited and punishable activity, they are afraid to report the events, and some do not participate in the surveys. In 2022, 35 fishermen between the ages of 19 and 62 were interviewed.
In order to achieve greater participation by fishermen, attempts are being made to visit these areas repeatedly to establish connections and build trust, thereby obtaining better data quality. Similarly, we continue to use the snowball sampling method for the interviews, whereby one participant recommends another, which helps to generate greater interest among respondents as they understand that there are no risks involved in sharing their information.
During each visit, printed information about the species was distributed, and three conferences were held, attended by 87 people.
We also worked hand in hand with the ecotourism company Fitlosophy in the north of the lake, which is committed to spreading information about endangered species in Lake Maracaibo. On each expedition, tourists receive a lecture on Guiana dolphins and manatees. The company's employees have infographics on both species and knowledge, as they have already been trained and instructed on which aspects to highlight when explaining dolphins and manatees to tourists.
In 2022, a total of 531 people took part in the kayak tour, mainly Venezuelans, but also tourists from Colombia, Argentina, Panama, Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, the United States, Spain, Turkey, India, and the Czech Republic.
Next steps:
• Intensify the search for information to identify areas with higher presence and mortality of the species.
• Create a map showing frequent manatee sightings and areas where manatees are most at risk, as a stimulus for decision-makers.
• In areas where tourism is already developed, maintain communication and provide support with materials, lectures, and other topics they need to promote manatees as a tourist attraction.
• Conduct research to estimate the frequency of encounters with the species in areas where its presence has been frequently detected.
Our species conservation organization YAQU PACHA has been active in Latin America for 30 years, working to protect endangered aquatic mammal species. You can support our species conservation work by making a donation or membership.
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