Manatee Pool

It rears and exhibits Trichechus manatus which became the model of Legends of Mermaids!

Manatees are herbivorous mammals which grow to be 10-15ft and 660-2,200lbs. Presently they are threatened with extinction and are designated as internationally protected animals. The male manatee at our facility was born in Mexico and was presented by the Mexican government to the people of Japan. The female “Yuma” was born at our facility in 2001.

On the first floor, you can observe the manatee from the water surface and from the underground observation room. You can also observe its behavior underwater. In addition, a video of “Yuma” being born is shown.

Observation is free of charge. It is about a 10 minute walk from the Park Information Center (Haisai Plaza) to the Manatee Pool. Transportation by trolley is available for a fee.

If you’re lucky enough, you might be able to see the Manatee being fed!

The keeper feeds the Manatee 2-3 times a day. Although wild Manatees eat water grass, here they are fed vegetables such as water hyacinth, lettuce, cabbage, Chinese cabbage and carrots. If you are lucky enough, you will be able to see the keeper feeding them. When the keeper puts out the food, the Manatees take the food directly to their mouth and slowly start to eat. You are lucky if you are able to see it.

Precaution

1. Please ensure not to throw in any items.
2. If an item is dropped into the pool, the animal may accidentally swallow it. so please be careful when observing.