1h
In defense of all species
From manatees to Labradoodles, let's treat them all with respect and dignity.
The new year wasn't yet a week old when we learned that the beginning of 2021 is going to feel a lot like the 52 weeks of misery that was 2020.
<p>Thousands of Rebels Without a Clue stormed the U.S. Capitol on January 6, resulting in five deaths. This week I just didn't want to write about coronavirus, or Trump, or impeachment. We've all heard plenty about all of them. </p><p>I spoke with our senior editor Brian Bienkowski, and he had one word: Manatees. <span></span></p><p>Manatees are freakin' adorable. West Indian manatees (<em>Trichechus manatus latirostris,</em> the put-upon Florida subspecies) have even put their mark on Washington's unique madness: Last week, a manatee was discovered with <a href="https://slate.com/technology/2021/01/manatee-trump-graffiti-wild-animal.html" target="_blank">the word "T-R-U-M-P" etched in the algae on its dorsal side</a>. </p><p>There's no evidence that this jowly, logy, Wilford Brimley-esque marine mammal was harmed. However, the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 says you need a special permit to even touch the critter. The Act aside—why the hell would you mess with a manatee? Marvel at them. Then leave them alone. </p><p>But enough about manatees. Let's touch on some of my other favorites. </p><listicle id="listicle-2649951630"></listicle>
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