Manatee spotted in Quonochontaug Pond

CHARLESTOWN, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management said a wild manatee was spotted in a pond in between Charlestown and Westerly.

The DEM said officials with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Mystic Aquarium are aware of the manatee and are monitoring it.

Sightings of the so-called “sea cow” can be reported to the Mystic Aquarium Animal Rescue Hotline at 860-572-5955, extension 107.

The DEM said manatees are protected by the Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act and advise anyone who may see one to keep an appropriate distance from the creatures.

For more information, visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website.