Rare Rhode Island Manatee Found Dead Offshore, Experts Investigate
A manatee that made a rare visit to Rhode Island has been found dead offshore, bringing a sad end to the marine mammal’s curious appearance in New England. The West Indian manatee, a gentle, plant-eating giant sometimes known as a sea cow, normally resides in the warmer waters of the Southeastern states and the Caribbean. Weighing as much as 1,200 pounds (550 kilograms) and with a potential lifespan of 65 years, these incredible creatures are not commonly seen in Rhode Island.
The manatee was first spotted in early September, marking the first observed appearance in the state since around 2010. Sarah Callan, the manager of the animal rescue program at Mystic Aquarium, expressed her sadness at the news of the manatee’s death. The animal was discovered between Prudence Island and Hog Island on Thursday afternoon, but its advanced state of decomposition makes it impossible to determine the cause of death.
According to Callan, the cold waters of New England in the fall are not suitable for manatees. It’s possible that the creature stuck to warmer waters in coastal bays during its stay, which prevented it from returning to its southern habitat before experiencing cold stress. The manatee was frequently sighted in coastal areas like Quonochontaug Pond, a saltwater pond in the southern part of Rhode Island.
Sarah Callan also revealed that there have been six recorded sightings of a manatee in Rhode Island and Connecticut waters since 1995. However, she added that appearances of these magnificent creatures could potentially become more frequent in the future.
The heartbreaking discovery of the deceased manatee highlights the importance of preserving the habitats and protecting the natural environments that these endangered animals rely on. As more attention is brought to their presence in unexpected locations, it is crucial that efforts are made to better understand their behavior and provide them with the support they need.
Although the death of this manatee is a loss, it serves as a reminder of the beauty and wonder of our oceans and the need to protect and conserve the diverse marine life that inhabits them.
