How are manatees babys cared for?

Answer 1

1. The newborn calf is capable of swimming to the surface on its own for its first breath.2. Calves vocalize at or soon after birth. This auditory form of communication is an important part of the mother-calf bonding process.3. The calf begins to nurse within a few hours after birth by suckling from teats under the pectoral flippers. Calves nurse under water4. Manatee milk contains mostly water with 20% solids, 7% protein, and 13% fat.5. Calves begin nibbling on plants within a few weeks of birth.6. Although it may be weaned by the end of its first year, the calf remains close to its mother for up to two years. It is dependent on its mother for not only nutrition, but also for learning about feeding and resting areas, travel routes, and warm water refuges.