The Weeki Wachee River in Florida is one of the worlds most beautiful natural wonders. With a constant temperature of 23.4 ?C, crystal clear water and steady flow from an underground spring, it's perfect for stand up padding. And Manatee. While on a casual paddle around the river, three stand up paddleboarders came across a herd of Manatee, 10 of them. Rather than swim away in an explosion of water (like they usually do) this lot just cruised below the trio's stand up paddleboards like they weren't even there. With such clear water, you can see how effortlessly the 100kg+ creatures are swimming along. Manatee are a regular sight for paddlers in the USA, similar to the Australia Dugong, also known as a sea cow. They live on sea grass, and often grow up to 500kg, although usually range in the 100-200kg weight bracket. Easily confused for dolphins and sharks at a distance, they're always startling when you're paddling on a SUP, but Dugongs and Manatee are totally harmless to humans, and can often be inquisitive and friendly. Watch as these three stand up paddleboarders look on in awe, as a herd of Manatee swim below them on the Weeki Wachee River in Florida.

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