Manatees are the world's only truly herbivorous, aquatic mammals. They eat between 60 and 70 known species of plants, but their favourite meal is water hyacinth. These gentle giants are a national treasure for Guyana. Currently there are 13 individuals housed in the ponds of the Botanical Gardens. On the weekends, visitors can come and help feed these massive vegetarians.

Did you know: In the past, manatees were placed in irrigation canals in and around Georgetown to help keep the waterways clear of vegetation. At the moment, the zoo has loaned two manatees in a similar waterway clean-up scheme. Den Amstel Water Users Association on the West Coast of the Demerara River uses manatees rather than manual human labour to maintain a clear water source. What a great way to put the manatee's sizable feeding capacity to good use!!