African Manatee

Trichechus senegalensis

Conservation Status

Near Threatened

Mammalia · Sirenia · Trichechidae

About

The African manatee, also known as the West African manatee, is a species of manatee that inhabits much of Western Africa – from Senegal to Angola. It is the only manatee species to be found in the Old World, as well as one of the two living Sirenians that live on the old world, the other being the Dugong.

Fun Fact

African manatees are the least-studied of all sirenians — so little was known about them that their population size wasn't estimated until 2015, and they are the only manatees found in both fresh and salt water in Africa.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Coastal waters and rivers

Diet

Herbivore

Lifespan

40-60 years

Threats

Invasive Aquatic Species
Dam Construction
Poaching

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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