These handpainted manatees are on a wall in Ballast Point Park. As the artist depicted them, they probably weigh 1,200lbs but they are twisting, spinning and rolling like featherweights under water. Although they are mammals, not fish, they never leave the water. They rise to the surface to breath and then submerge themselves for up to 24 minutes before going up for air again. The artist captured their playfulness, cute expressive faces and massive size quite well. Yesterday I posted a Caution: Manatee warning sign for boaters at Tampa Florida Photo with links to a couple of very good manatee web sites. If you're interested in learning a lot more take a look. These animals are amazing and fantastic creatures. Can't you imagine a hug from those flippers?
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Manatees swim and dance like ballerinas
These handpainted manatees are on a wall in Ballast Point Park. As the artist depicted them, they probably weigh 1,200lbs but they are twisting, spinning and rolling like featherweights under water. Although they are mammals, not fish, they never leave the water. They rise to the surface to breath and then submerge themselves for up to 24 minutes before going up for air again. The artist captured their playfulness, cute expressive faces and massive size quite well. Yesterday I posted a Caution: Manatee warning sign for boaters at Tampa Florida Photo with links to a couple of very good manatee web sites. If you're interested in learning a lot more take a look. These animals are amazing and fantastic creatures. Can't you imagine a hug from those flippers?
3 comments:
Pretty hefty ballerinas, but beautiful nonetheless
Oh Frank, you have brought back memories of when I was privilaged to come face to face with a Manatee and her baby in Crystal River, I will never forget it, such a large animal but so gentle, I felt especially honoured that she allowed her baby to come so close to me.
This is one of the better wall paintings I've seen...delightful and captured well the playfulness of these beautiful animals!
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