Some Florida beachgoers were filmed breaking the law by petting manatees. Even a jet ski rider was filmed running over a herd of the peaceful sea animals. Ron Magill, communications director at Zoo Miami, says manatees can hurt you if they are frightened. Humans who get too close may push the sea creature over the edge but manatees are known as gentle giants. “With their [manatees] anxiety and panic to get away, they can plunge right through you,” Magill said.
