Why are the vacation homes called Sirenia?
Pronounced "SIR - N - EE - AH"
Sirenia is the order of aquatic mammals called manatees. Anna Maria Island is home to this unique and endangered species. They are found in the shallow, warm waters in sheltered regions where they feed on sea grasses. It has long been speculated that the lonely sailors of the past mistook these gentle creatures for mermaids.
Be on the lookout for these large slow moving animals resembling whales which can grow up to 12 feet long. They have grey skin with whiskers on their wide muzzles, beautiful eyes, small forearms and a flat tail. They are protected by state law in Florida and we are lucky to live in an area where they can be viewed in the canals and Inter coastal waterway....right in our own backyard!
Please abide all speed signage, rules and regulations while boating in order to keep these marine animals safe for future generations to enjoy.
Anna Maria Island Home Rental is proud to be a Steward Member of Save The Manatee Club. Simply by staying at our Sirenia ~ Anna Maria Vacation Rentals you are contributing to "Save the Manatee's" recovery and protection of manatees and their aquatic ecosystems throughout the world.
Thank you!
Nancy McAleer and Terri Mason
Save the Manatee Club is a 501 non profit and group organization founded by singer Jimmy Buffett and U.S. Senator Bob Graham in 1981. You can adopt a manatee for as little as $25 USD. The website below is full of information on manatees, boating rules and guidelines.
http://savethemanatee.org