Lesson 2: How Does the Season Affect the Number of Manatee Strikes?

Most manatees live in tropical climates. However, even tropical regions have seasonal changes. Does the season affect the likelihood that a boat will strike a manatee?

Doing the science

1. Start the Manatee Strike Zone Simulation by clicking on the "Sim" tab.
2. Click the mouse in a location in Zone 1 and drag the mouse to Zone 2 before it’s released. Note a red path and boat appears.
3. Click the mouse in a location in Zone 2 and drag the mouse to Zone 3 before it’s released. Note another red path and boat appears.
4. Note and record in Table 1 the number of manatees on the screen (it should be 5).
5. Note and record in Table 1 the "Season" displayed in the lower left-hand corner of the screen.
6. Click the "Run" button. Let the time run for 1:00 minute.
7. At the 1:00 minute mark, click the "Pause" button.
8. Note and record in Table 1 the number of manatee strikes shown in the display in the upper right-hand corner of the screen.
9. Click on the "Restart" button.
10. Click on the "Fall/Winter" radio button to select a new season. Record this in Table 1.
11. Click the "Run" button. Let the time run for 1:00 minute.
12. At the 1:00 minute mark, click the "Pause" button.
13. Note and record in Table 1 the number of manatee strikes shown in the display in the upper right-hand corner of the screen.