an index of minimum abundance at the time of the survey, but these counts are also 

 useful to show distribution and habitat use. 



We conducted a series of aerial surveys from July to December 1979 to examine 

 the distribution and relative abundance of manatees and dolphins from Bayport, Hernando 

 County , Florida (28°32'N, 82°39'W), south to Flamingo Ranger Station (ENP), Monroe 

 County, Florida (25°08'N, 81°02'W; Figure 1). We also noted incidental sightings of sea 

 turtles, turtle tracks on beaches, and crocodiles. 



