Manatees descend on Florida springs in record numbers

A rush in tides prompted a dramatic surge in numbers

(Facebook/Southwest Florida Water Management District)

A spring in Florida was forced to close a one acre plot of water to swimmers and kayakers this week, after more than 300 manatees moved into the area.

Three Sisters Springs in Citrus County usually has an average of 65 manatees gathered at once during the cold weather, but a rush in tides at noon prompted a dramatic surge in numbers.

"We have a record number this year," Ruettiman told USA Today. "We have 150 more manatees here than have ever been recorded in the past."

Officials said the springs reopened to the public on 3 February but would be closed again as manatees returned to the interior of the springs with the rising tide.

According to the Southwest Florida Water Management District, officials will monitor the pools to see whether the waterway can be opened again soon.