Manatees are usually seen alone, in pairs, or in small groups of half a dozen or fewer animals. From above the water surface, the animal's nose and nostrils are often the only visible parts. Manatees never leave the water, but like all marine mammals, they must breathe air at the surface. A resting manatee can stay underwater for up to 15 minutes, but while swimming, it must surface every three or four minutes. This manatee (subspecies of the sea cow) figurine measures 14.5 x 5.8 x 4.2 centimeters.