Manatees

These huge, mysterious mammals are found throughout the bays, estuaries and rivers of Bocas del Toro, but are extremely hard to spot, due to the fact they remain below the surface of the water and push just their nostrils out to breathe.

Manatees can grow to over three meters, but are gentle vegetarians who graze on seagrass – sometimes consuming up to 30 kilograms in a single day. Historically, they have been hunted for their meat and hide, and while illegal poaching still occurs, the biggest threat to these animals is habitat loss and injury caused by motor boats.