In Search of 'Mamiwata'

Mamiwata is an African name for a spirit believed to be embodied by the manatee. This blog chronicles my search for the elusive African manatee, and my exploration to understand its biology, habitat and preservation needs, economic and cultural significance. So little is known about this animal, yet it is intensely hunted almost everywhere it exists and may already be gone from much of its previous range. In 2006 I was inspired to go find and study them, starting in Gabon.

Saturday, September 16, 2006

'Mamiwata' is an African name for a spirit believed to be embodied by the manatee. She's a female and caprious spirit. When waters are high here during the rainy season they say Mamiwata is hungry (which is cool, because manatees enter flooded forests to feed during the rainy season). I'm hearing some stories here and will relay more soon....