Snooty, oldest known manatee in captivity, turns 64
Is that a little gray in the whiskers? Snooty the manatee, the official mascot of Manatee County, turned 64 on Saturday. Although he's the oldest known Manatee in captivity, he still gets around pretty well.
By Summer Smith, Reporter
Last Updated: Saturday, July 21, 2012
BRADENTON --
The oldest known manatee in captivity turns 64 today.
A birthday bash is being held at the South Florida Museum in Bradenton to celebrate Snooty's big deay.
Born on July 21, 1948 at the old Miami Aquarium and Tackle Company, Snooty was recorded as the first manatee born in captivity.
He was brought to Bradenton when he was just 11 months old. Since then, millions have visited him.
Snooty not only loves the attention he receives, but he was also the first manatee to have an actual, recorded birth date.
Marilyn Margold, who cares for Snooty, said she also believes he may just be the oldest manatee around.
"Even when they find fossilized remains of manatees, they find them in their 40s and 50s," she said. "But they haven't noted anything of an animal living in his 60s."
Snooty weighs 1,275 pounds and is 9 feet, 8 inches long. He eats 70 pounds of lettuce and 20 pounds of other vegetables a day.
He's a manatee who provides an experience you don't want to miss.
Margold says Snooty won't be around forever. Once he's gone, he won't be replaced.
"Because of their status, they are an endangered species," she said. "Because laws have changed since Snooty came into captivity, there are no more manatees that are being allowed to be permanent captives. They're all considered some sort of releasable."
The birthday party will take place at the South Florida Museum in Bradenton from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It's free to attend. The celebration will feature children's games, art, cookies and more.
Bay News 9
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