Manatee Springs

An incredible spring with underwater photo opportunities galore. It's a unique spring, with algae over sand. Treat it carefully, LNT, and enjoy exploring the beautiful colors and light at this spring--a favorite of mine! @KathrynCooperWeddings

It's a quaint spring. We didn't see any fish while snorkeling. A swift current was present near the boating end.

30 feet deep at the deepest. Algae. Not many shallow spots, but large area for swimming and viewing the springs. Dog friendly except in the water.

Water level is up. But there's all kinds of manatees. And. As Usual deers to tell you bye when you leave. I see them every time. Took the grandbabies to learn their new scooters and play on the playground. Gotta burn up some of that energy. Lol!! 🦋😇

Easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Florida. You can see all sorts of wonderful flora and fauna in the area. Great place for family picnics and good times with friends, but please be sure to keep it clean. Mosquitoes can be a problem during the summer, as can the weather so be sure to prepare properly ahead of time!

What an incredible Fresh Water Springs to swim in! Manatee have their young here. Fresh, crisp, clear waters, with a canopy of beauty around you. Has steps to walk into the springs, in 2 different areas. Bring your snorkel mask to see around, if you have one, or float and swim the day away. Highly recommend to visit this exceptional place that runs into the Swanee River. No Gators were seen at all, here. Rare occasions.

The Manatee springs state park is a perfect place for camping but the spring here is not that clean as compared to other springs. It's not that clean. Also it is very deep. Just after taking a single step after stairs you'll find a 8 feet depth.

One of the most beautiful springs I've been to in Florida will go again very soon

The views are great, just off the Suwanee River, with a long boardwalk from the spring out to the river. We saw several adult and about 12 baby manatees. There are canoes and kayaks for rent as well. The wildlife is plentiful and easy to capture on camera. It is a fairly large park, and free with the state park pass. Take several hours here.

Off the beaten path, this park offers quiet campsites with access to clean springs that serve as home to manatees. Some beautiful walking areas on Treelined paths make for a relaxing break from the road. Observation areas at the springs including a dock allow for quiet reflection and peaceful manatee watching. Kayak rentals available. I just love this park! Highly recommend for campers, looking for a real getaway.

I'm updating my review since my first one is now over ten years old. Some things have changed! Manatee Springs offers a lot people seek in Florida State Parks: the beautiful clear springs, for one, but also camping, plenty of nature trails for hiking or biking, and a boardwalk where you're very likely to see wildlife such as turtles, harmless brown water snakes, birds, and often alligators (safely in the water, not on the boardwalk!). Things to know: there's a lot to do here and a concession vendor who rents canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, and sells some food as well. They keep kind of strange hours, however, and are in the same small building as the bathrooms near the spring. The bathrooms are small: one fault of the Florida State Parks honestly is they did not build large enough restrooms and few have changing areas or showers, despite being at the springs. The Ocala National Forest (a USDA property) has done far better in that regard. The spring is pretty good for freediving which is my personal main attraction here. However, there is not that much to really see and the water can be a bit murky at times. There are fewer fish normally than at in example Ichetucknee's headsprings or Fanning Springs but if you come on a quiet (weekday) afternoon, you may see some mullet. Sightings of water birds and especially brown water snakes (non-venomous) and alligators along the spring-run to the Suwannee River are common so it's a good spot for wildlife photography. Manatees are far more common in the winter but sometimes will wander in during summer months, too. The park gets busy on weekends but rarely has the party atmosphere of Fanning or Ichetucknee and seems to get more people serious about viewing nature, which is nice.

This is where you want to visit to see manatees! In winter the manatees will migrate up river and into this area. You can walk on a board walk mostly just above the springs tributary and see them. However, you should really consider renting a canoe or kayak! They're totally worth the price and you'll see so much more. Hiking trails are available but the water features are the best. The day use area has a code but campgrounds have restrooms with showers and no code.

Bugs. Bugs. Bugs. Lotsa bugs EVERYWHERE!!! Visiting Florida to scuba dive in some of the springs. This one was quiet. We saw very few visitors during the afternoon dive. A gift shop with souvenirs, ice cream, and restrooms was nice to have. My only complaint was the buzzing gnats? They kept buzzing around my ears. I finally stuck my fingers in my ears to keep from swatting at them. I loved the long boardwalk. It was closed for a short time for cleaning, but I was able to access it after the crew was finished. Worth a visit. Bring bug spray, netting, zappers, all the things!

Great state park that offers camping as well as day visits. Short boardwalk trail down to the Swanee through the mangroves - we saw one manatee, a baby alligator, turtles and snakes. Great swimming in the spring - flotation devices are allowed Rent a kayak or paddle board Nice bathrooms available

My boyfriend and I went (tent) camping here last weekend and we were super impressed. This has to be the cleanest campground and park I have ever stayed at. The site was impeccable with plenty of room, a clean fire pit and sturdy picnic table. The bathrooms were sparkling for a camp bathroom. I was amazed. The showers were really nice, warm water and plenty of room to place your things so they don't get wet. We brought our kayaks and explored the Suwannee River. The kayak launch was really close to the parking drop off area. I love that they have canoes to rent too. We hiked through the park and saw plenty of wildlife like deer, turtles and an armadillo or two. You can purchase firewood from the ranger station at the park entrance. It's $8 cash, and you have to have the exact amount as the park employees do not handle the cash at all. It would be nice if they also sold ice. Great place to camp! I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a nice weekend getaway. Also really close to Cedar Key if you need a day trip.

We stopped in during Covid, so the walking trail near the springs was not open. We wandered around the springs and stepped in, but it was chilly! The springs stay at 72 degrees year-round. It had rained, so it was too cool for us to get in at that time. It didn't stop a group of children, though. They seemed to be having a great time. I am told that the manatees swim up through a cave to get to warmer waters in January and February. I want to go back then to see if I'm brave enough to swim with them. The water is very clear, so you could see several turtles and fish in the springs when we were there.

What's a great spot to go camping. There isn't much to do in the area but the park has a few nature trails and natural springs. You can rent kayaks and go around the park. We stayed over night in tents on the grounds, camping was so fun and it didn't feel too crowded. The water is so blue you can see right through and it is cool!

Old Florida charm. Nice cold springs for swimming, ramp to launch your canoe or kayaks, snack bar, on site kayak and canoe rentals, campground with hook ups, hiking trails, No cell service in the park area.

I camped here for a total of 4 days and it was a great experience! As for the park, This is a beautiful park. You can see the deers walking through the park and in the campsites. We saw a raccoon that kept visiting the camp site trying to take some food. Many many squirrels And brown water snakes! The spring is beautiful! Very cold but it's a wonderful experience. The food outpost is ok. Very cheap prices but the food isn't all that great. You can rent canoes for about $26 for 4 hours. Now for the employees, they were all very nice and kind!

So cool. I haven't swam in fresh water since moving to Florida and it was glorious. Also actually cool--the water is, I am told, a constant 72 degrees. The cold, clear water makes alligators less happy and therefore a good place to swim. For about six bucks Americans and guests of all stripes van enjoy this peaceful and well-managed spot. Come early--apparently if the park gets too crowded the front gate will not permit more admissions. The concession stand it well managed - get a half rack of ribs - if paper plate basic. They also run the kayak/canoe/paddleboard rental which is decent, but not as compelling as swimming in the spring.

Loved this park! The turtles, birds and alligators from the boardwalk and kayaks were entertaining but the manatee were the stars of the show. Fell in love with manatees! As adults we kayaked, walked/hiked and bicycled. Available for your kids; snack shop, natural swim area, play areas and trails-- I'm sure even more than we saw.

This is a MUST SEE!! A beautiful gem tucked away from the hustle and bustle of every day life! Please trust me when I say that you've probably never have seen such crystal clear water! The spring water, which you can see rising up from the ground, is beautifully clear and the PERFECT temperature!! Besides swimming, the Park offers visitors trails to hike, canoe rental, and/or camping sites. Plus, there are certain areas where you are allowed to bring your furry friend :) Plus, the Rangers are very friendly and helpful. But be aware of your surroundings - there are snakes and alligators in the area. And, during the winter months, Manatees have been known to gather in the area.

This place is a gem to find! We stumbled upon this little area on our way through Florida! It's so beautiful, we even had our swimsuits and went for a dip in the spring. It only cost us $6 to enter the park. Will definitely visit again.

This Florida State Park is a little slice of heaven. What a great day to spend a day, taking in many varieties of animal and plant life! Enjoyed renting a kayak from the kind couple around Anderson Adventures. Their baked beans and cole slaw were very delicious. Beautiful sites and sounds abound this nature lovers paradise. Wasn't over crowded and easy to get in and out.

We visited on a week day and were virtually the only people there. We walked the boardwalk to where it ends at the river. The spring head is a gorgeous turquoise color. We didn't camp, kayak, or take advantage of anything else the park had to offer, except a quick stop to the restrooms before heading out. I imagine this like any park can get quite crowded and noisy during peak times of the year. Especially at the end of the boardwalk there were a lot of Turkey Vultures. Not sure why, but don't be afraid. They are harmless and fly off the boardwalk into the trees.

Wonderful place to visit and swim in the springs. On your visit expect to get up close and personal with Florida wildlife such as deer, snakes & raccoons. HOWEVER, If you plan on camping the night, be prepared to be harassed by park ranger Swardoski for having low music, conversations and grilling all within normal hours. Quiet hour is at 11pm but know if you're not willing to be in bed by sundown you will be kicked out and the sheriff will be called. Apparently no music is allowed, no laughs, no fun. Just stay home honestly or

This is a beautiful park, even with the tourist attraction associated with the Spring Head ... this spring is less crowded than say Wekiwa Springs in Apopka, but it still draws a crowd. We spent the night here in our Winnebago Navion at site 65 ... a large level site with 30/50 AMP and H2O service. This is a large, level site ... and private. The bathrooms were average in terms of cleanliness ... There are some solid hiking trails, both long and short ... and an outstanding boardwalk that goes from the Spring Head to the Suwannee River ... FYSA, dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk. A really good and short hiking loop is the Sink Loop Trail ... maybe a mile at best and a good calorie burn after dinner. This is the only park I've ever picked up a tick in the last 11 years, and we spend a lot of time outdoors ... most likely due to the deer in the area that almost seem domesticated ... as they will walk through your camp site and get within several feet of you ... You can see a video of our overnight visit on YouTube here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUumsnSBbLE

Had a Family campout on 8-16-19 to 8-18-19 had a good time, but it rained all weekend, The weather was really crappy. We would like to go back when the weather is better. We did get to go down to the spring on Sunday and they are beautiful. The bathroom are vary clean. The deer would come right up to you, with there babies. I really like it because the campsites are private, they are not on top of each other with a lot of trees all around you.

This park is absolutely fantastic and beautiful. This gem of a state park is a must see! We went on a sunny August day and the water was cool and refreshing. Springs beat the beach hands down because you can see the bottom and the water is super clean. During our picnic lunch five deer came right up to us while we ate along with some curious squirrels. They have food cafe on site along with adequate parking. Going to return to do some tent camping soon. Oh and did I mention no bugs either what a perfect day!

Manatee Springs is a beautiful park, perfect camping site, grills, picnic table, and charging station included. The bathrooms were gross, they need some remodeling and cleaning, but useable anyway. The water was so nice, freezing, so be prepared for that. This is more of a family state park due to the fact that we had music on and were a big group of adults that just wanted to have fun and enjoy our camping trip. Apparently they complained of our music being "too loud" which it wasn't, but we just put it down, mind you, we asked until what time we could have music/noise, they said 11 pm, around 8-9 pm the male ranger that works there came saying he had told us multiple times already to turn it down because people "complained" and he ended up calling the cops on us (which they didn't tell us anything). We had our music low and were not being noisy, and our neighbors were nice and we even told them to let us know if we get too loud etc. but they didn't even care and we didn't have anyone else near us besides them two. So to be honest that was all just unfair, we felt attacked, and they were for sure RACIST. We paid money to stay all weekend and got kicked out, and no money back. Never going back to this state park, and it's such a shame because it was such a nice spring, visited it for the first time. By all means, do not go if you wanna have fun, and have music and go with your group of friends, go to Ginnie Springs! P.S. the deers were so cute, they would come up to you, and at night the raccoons come out so be careful with your food! OH and we saw no Manatees at the so called "Manatee Springs State Park". #calochasprings

Beautiful nature trails and swimming hole. Crystal clear waters, has snack, beer and light food concession. Reasonably priced. We only stayed for a few hours.

This park was really beautiful. The basin of the spring has a deck built around it so access to water is quite easy. The boardwalk that leads you to the river is a scenic walk through cypress trees and stumps that are huge. They have canoes and kayaks for rent. There is space for tent and RV camping. We went midday and didn't get to see any manatees, apparently they are active in the morning and in the evening.

Saddest experience ever. I went here with my fiancé and my mother and first my mom checked in and the boy up front let 6 people go in front of her because he lost her reservations, he finally found it and my mom was upset and he said I'm sorry but in customer service you never explain yourself the customer is always right. When my fiancé and I went to check in he told me to tell my mom he had time to reflect and he was truly sorry and in the wrong. weirdly after this we said thank you for your apology and went on and put our tent up on the dirt at our campsite. Then my service dog saw a woman in a golf cart come up and he started barking at her and she said your dog provides a service he won't be for long meaning he would be out down if he were to bite her which he didn't he has never bit anything. She said we had to move our tent from the dirt to hard gravel my mom being a passionate person who struggles with mental illness rose her voice and said why did you tell us this at night instead of right when we put it up. And raising her voice speaking about politics because she was so upset. Mind you the women continued arguing with her she could of said sorry please move your tent but rudely barked the order. Also the neighbor had their tent in the dirt as well and she didn't say anything to o them. She also said we couldn't put wood in the fire to start it from the ground. She wanted us to buy the wood from the store for 8$. Mind you were Visiting 3 hour drive away and she left and two hours later once it hit night time she then called the police to kick us off the campsite because of my mom having an opinion and raising her voice, in all my years of Customer service we always say the customer is right I have been yelled at plenty of times and never ever would kick out an angry client. We had to drive three hours back home in the dark and pack up our whole campsite. NOT WORTH IT!! Plus they said the springs were closed to let people swim due to there being an alligator sighting. If you want to have fun go anywhere else but here if you have someone in your family with mental disabilities do not come here, you'll be discriminated against for having your own opinion and surely kicked out no refund either.

Nice spring, big campsites. Good bathroom and showers. Roads in campsites need to be raked smooth, pot holes everywhere. My big issue is they moved the dumpsters away from the campsites. Up the road to the dump station. Too far from the camps. This will lead to trash left pin the campground and bathrooms. A big inconvenience. Not sure how they came up with this bad decision, but service to there customers wasn' t a concern. Also many deer walk through the campground. Cute. But with people feeding them, the deer have no fear of people. And defecate around the campsite. Lots of flies.

Stayed in Manatee Springs State Park for 5 days to see one of these elusive creature. Never see one, probably wrong season! Our walk-in site #61 is shaded and very spacious for 35' trailer/vehicle combo. Sites are uneven and sandy. For around $20/night for electric/water hookup, we liked the bargain. Bathroom was dated with strange layout but within short walk. Communication via very weak 3G cell network, and WiFi is only at rental concession stand. The Manatee SP has little bit of everything; crystal clear spring for kayaking, beautiful swimming hole completed with synthetic boardwalk, scenic hiking/biking trails close by. Yeah, everything in beautiful smallish scale. Deers walk past our campsite, squires on our table, alligators on floating vegetation and tree stumps, turtles on the road. Very nice and quiet stay, did felt like a small Florida vacation.

If you love wildlife, this is the state park for you! We had armadillo, squirel, deer, and wild hog in our campsite. Yes, wild hog. I woke up at 2 am with 8 of them in our site. What an adventure! The spring is beautiful, boardwalk is nice. Would definitely stay again! Only negative was that our circut breaker plug in was loose.

What a beautifully clean campground! My site was spotless. The boardwalk to the river is beautiful. An abundance wildlife everywhere. Come visit!

This place is amazing!!!!Affordable Rental paddle-boards and kayaks.Beautiful place to spend the day with the family.

Went snorkeling and had a blast. Concessions serve beer, wine hot dogs/burgers and snacks. They don't allow you to bring your own alcohol in the park but they aren't exactly checking coolers either. You go here for the swimming and the park...if you are coming here as a restaurant destination turn around now or take the time to get wet in the 72 degree crystal clear water. Also walk down the boardwalk to see the Suwannee River up close.

Beautiful springs, beautiful place to pitch your tent and the gulf sturgeons are truly amazing to watch off their dock at the park.

I've been to numerous local springs and this one is the best. The water is green / blue / crystal clear water. There are plenty of picnic tables and grills. There is plenty of shade to stay out of the sun. They offer swimming and scuba diving. There is access to the Suwannee River for boating and kayaking. They even have a restaurant on the premises that offers barbecue and beer. Overall a great place to spend the day and enjoy the wonderful Florida weather and swim in the crystal clear cold water.

Another family camping trip is in the books and this one was a great one. If you are into the real outdoorsy feel complete with woods a river and some springs, this is a park for you. The springs are apparently 72 degrees year round and manatees swim into the area during the colder months. Lots of wildlife throughout the park. Deer will walk right up to your camp site and smile at you. We stayed in the Magnolia camping area and I really liked that area because there aren't as many sites, so it's not as crowded as the other areas. Though I didn't try it I heard the bbq place near the springs is really good. They also rent scuba gear, snorkeling gear and just about anything else you could possibly need. Check out a very cool sunset at the end of the pier. Let the kids play on the entertaining playground. Plenty to do for everyone. We will definitely be back. Two thumbs up.

This is a beautiful park with some nice walking trails, a snack bar and picnic area. There were several manatees in the spring when we were there. There are stairs leading into the water if you want to swim with the manatees. A father was taking his two sons into the water to swim, but had to change his mind when a water moccasin was laying on the stairs heading into the water. We talked to the man who pointed him out and he said he questioned the person at the gate about poisonous snakes. He was told there were none. It was definitely a water moccasin. Be aware there are many snakes in the water. We saw several. I don't believe I have ever seen as many vultures in one place as we saw in the park that day.

Beautiful Florida State Park for tent & RV camping. We have a 22 ft camper which works perfectly for parking and maneuvering throughout the park. Stay in Magnolia 1 if you want sewer hookup and a new shower / restroom building. The springs were full of manatees during our stay. Enjoy a Manatee Dog at the snack bar. It's a treat! Taking a pontoon cruise on the Suwanee River this afternoon with the temperatures reaching 80 degrees. It's a 1.5 hr cruise for 6 plus captain.

I really thought this place was beautiful. We camped here for 5 days and enjoyed our stay. Camp staff were helpful and polite and even drove around with firewood for sale. The bathrooms were very clean and had lots of privacy in the showers. Wildlife was abundant. We saw tons of deer, usually at dawn and dusk, pileated woodpeckers, snakes (down by the spring), turtles and alligators. The staff down by the spring was very nice and helpful when we rented a kayak. For a tandem kayak it was around $26 for 2 hours. The only thing I can say that was off putting was the fact that I found a lot of ticks. One ended up attached to my neck. Gross. I was pretty vigilant about spraying the first few days, but probably didn't spray enough the last couple. So, I think if you are diligent was spraying yourself, you'll be ok. Can't expect there not to be bugs in the Woods. Overall, I'd definitely go back. Whether for a day trip or another camping trip. Oh and one more thing, prepare for no phone reception.

Manatee Springs What an amazing trip! The staff are super friendly. The bathrooms are very clean and convenient. Lots of cute little critters. We saw deer, an armadillo, raccoons, snakes, a manatee, birds, and squirrels. It is very relaxing and mostly quiet. Magnolia 1 is nice. The campsites in the center of the circle are kind of close together, the ones on the outside are more secluded. Magnolia 2 is nice as well. This one is more wooded. The campsites seem to be a little more spread a part. Hickory has a lot of bushes and woods near the campsites. We stayed at 2 in Magnolia 1. The walk to the springs was not long at all. We rented kayaks from Andersons Outdoors Adventures. It was $85 for two single kayaks for the trip from Andersons Park(9.6 miles). The view was amazing and for $20.00 a night, you can't beat it. We will definitely be back!

A great camping area (the sites are smaller than most) but the camp employees are not friendly at all. First interactions 2 of them told us to slow are cars down. We were driving 10mph with no signs of speed limited around. Than immediately after the 2 employees told us we had our "camp host" tell us shame shame of you and started to reprimand us. Second interactions we can't tie Christmas lights on the tree okay we moved them, although other campers around us had lights on the tree and no one was bother them to take them down. My dog is near my feet, but she can't be off a leash (less than 5 mins they were there). I swear they have video surveillance and there is a nicer way to approach people to tell them something. I am trying to have a relaxing weekend and all I get is these rude camp employees come and reprimand me and my family.

My whole group seriously loved this place. Our campsite was perfect. Close to the bathrooms (which were SUPER nice and clean, by the way) but far enough away that we were secluded and not too close to other campers. Deer came within five feet of us in the middle of the day and it was so awesome. Beware of raccoons though- they definitely messed up (and ate) anything that was left outside at night! The springs were so beautiful. This was definitely a great time of year to go. We saw a ton of manatees, the water was beautiful and so clear, and the trees were a gorgeous color. Chiefland is ten minutes away, where there's a Walmart, McDonald's, etc. It was super convenient. Even though it was freezing cold, this camping trip was one for the books.

Oh, please, just go here. What a beautiful state park! The day we were here, there were several manatees floating around in the spring among the kayakers, who all seemed thrilled to be in their kayaks next to these beautiful, endangered creatures. There is a beautiful boardwalk where you walk among cypress knees out to the Suwannee River. It is truly so beautiful. There are tons of picnic areas and lots of stuff to do (including renting the kayaks). I had a wonderful day in this state park.

Loved it. Very clean. Not over crowded. Beautuful water. Food stand good prices. Camping areas look good too. Very large park and divers don't swarm the swimming area.

We've lived in the area just over 20 years. Sadly we haven't been to Manatee Springs a lot of times. But we always enjoyed it there and loved watching the deer up close and the Manatees. Employees were always friendly. We will soon move away and are going to miss this place.

My favorite FL spring. Large swimming area with boardwalk to the river. Low per vehicle rate is a nice plus.

Horrible experience at manatee springs. We were kicked out of this part for a reason non other than being Hispanic. The park ranger called the police on us because we " would not lower our music" however we were never asked to do so. In reality our music was low and our neighbors were even hanging out with our group. it later turns out the police show up and tell us we have to leave by 7am since we were told on 4 occasions to lower our music however not once did anyone even ask that we lower our music. If your looking for a horrible camping experience look no further. If your looking for a good time go back on the yelp search and check out Ginnie Springs. They allow you to have a great time and actually have a much nicer spring this is where we ended up after leaving manatee springs. If for some odd reason after reading this you feel compelled to try your luck make sure to be in bed by sun down or risk being kicked out for a no good reason other than racism.

My wife and I had our first visit to MS. We absolutely enjoyed our weekend. The park is well kept, the staff are polite and well informed, and the amenities are first class. The showers are clean and the water is hot (adjust to your liking). We enjoyed kayaking and the pulled pork sandwich for the concession was delicious. We look forward to our next visit.

This may have only been our second camping trip, but Manatee Springs State Park far surpassed our first camping trip! I really liked the layout of the campsites and they are decent sized too. The map online made it seem like we were pretty far from the restrooms and the Spring but that was not the case. The restroom was a very short walk and the Springs was just a little further. We walked to and from the Spring several times with no issues. The facilities are very nice for being a State Park camping area. They have a concession stand where you can buy more than just chips and candy. They sell pulled pork, ribs, chicken, etc. They also rent an assortment of items such as canoes, kayaks, tubes and snorkel gear. They also offer a Pontoon Tour which was great. The Spring was neat, but it's def. cold! There is so much wildlife around the camping area. We saw tons of deer, opossum, armadillo, and a few raccoons too. I highly recommend MSSP for campers!

I am not a big bbq guy but decided to try the barbecue at the springs. They make bbq fresh daily on the smoker starting early in the am. Had the pork sandwich and was huge and melts in your mouth! Super, super taste and delicious. My son loved it too and that shocked me! You won't be disappointed at all!

Okay, Manatee Springs State Park is BEAUTIFUL. I would definitely suggest a day trip and swim in the spring. Viewing the manatees was very cool. However... we stayed at the campground for 3 nights and we pulled over 60, yes 60, ticks off of our dog! (Not to mention 2 ticks of my son and 1 off my husband.) You could literally see them crawling on our dog's fur during the stay, we were batting them away. Finally to get home and do a tick search on our lab and found the 60. We were told that there "was a not a tick problem at the park." I would hate to be there when there was one! Our friends went with us and also pulled about 30 plus ticks off their dog and other family members. I feel bad having to complain about this but people need to know, with all the disease these critters can carry. I'm sorry! :(