Cold weather caused the manatees to gather together from various bodies of water and seek out Three Sisters Spring as the water remains at a consistent temperature of 72 degrees.
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge Complex posted on Facebook Monday that the large concentration of manatees would cause the spring to close, as not to disturb the animals.
"As of 5 PM on Monday, February 8, 2016, the Refuge has closed Three Sisters Springs due to high numbers of manatees in the springs, those entering the spring as the tide floods, and the expected influx of more manatees currently holed up in Idiots Delight," they wrote.
The spring was reopened on Tuesday, but staff continued to monitor the situation.
Video of manatees outside Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River Florida this morning. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates about 300 manatees were using the spring as a warm water shelter this morning.
Posted by Citrus County, Florida :: The Water Lover's Florida on Monday, February 8, 2016Advertisement
