Cold weather brings manatees to Three Sisters Springs' warm waters

CRYSTAL RIVER (FOX 13) - Manatees huddled together in warmer waters is a normal sight to see during the Florida cold. 

During this time, various areas throughout Florida sees an increase in manatee activity, including the Three Sisters Springs in Citrus County, which saw freezing temperatures during the first week of January.

It’s a reason why the Southwest Florida Water Management District completed a stabilization project, which started in 2016. The shoreline surrounding the springs was eroded and undercut from years of manatee and human activity. Officials say the erosion caused sediments to enter the spring vents and shoreline trees collapse, which results in a loss of habitat. 

This week, manatees were seen seeking refuse in the warmer waters at Three Sisters Springs, which is noted in adorable video showing them huddle together.  The water temperature stays at a constant and comfortable 73 degrees.