In honor of Earth Month this year, we ask that you take a moment to reflect on our big blue planet. Though Earth Month is a time to raise awareness about many environmental concerns, our Merworld crew is especially passionate about all things aquatic. One of our favorite aquatic creatures is shown in the image above: the Manatee aka Sea Cow aka Sea Potato (not to be confused with the urchin of the same name). These gentle mammals hang out in coastal areas, canals, and saltwater bays in the southeastern U.S., Central America, and northern coast of South America. Climate change has a real impact on these lovable herbivores, threating to upset key food sources and their natural habitat. For more information, check out one of the author’s favorite non-profit orgs: Save the Manatee. You can learn about research and rescue efforts, adopt a manatee of your own, and even watch live manatee webcams!

Fun Tidbit: Manatees belong to the scientific order Sirenia. Similar in name to the mythological Siren - mercreatures known for their irresistible singing and luring sailors to their deaths. Folklore suggests that original mermaid sightings were actually manatees breaching the surface near boats. It’s possible this gentle creature inspired much of what we know about mermaid legend today.