Cold has killed at least 80 % of West Indies manatees this year , 280 in all . Wildlife reports : Manatees ca n't cope when it is colder than 68 degrees . Manatee are already dead , and 2009 confirmed deaths were a record 429 . The carcasses of manatees who were n't able to find a warm water refuge have been turning up daily . Necropsy lab technician says she fears more may die in spring from lingering effects of cold .
Cold has killed at least 80 % of West Indies manatees this year , 280 in all . Wildlife reports : Manatees ca n't cope when it is colder than 68 degrees . Manatee are already dead , and 2009 confirmed deaths were a record 429 . Necropsy lab technician says she fears more may die in spring from lingering effects of cold .