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Designated Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) Secretary Waldemar Quiles Pérez on Sunday called on citizens to respect the adaptation process of the four manatees that were recently released and are now learning to survive in their natural habitat.
“We ask citizens to give these manatees their space while they complete their adaptation process to life in freedom,” Quiles Pérez said in a written statement. “It is essential that they are not approached, touched or fed. As part of their rehabilitation, they must learn to find their own resources to survive in nature.”
He noted that when a marine mammal becomes beached, its well-being is severely compromised. Out of the water, the weight of its own body compresses its organs, which can lead to irreversible internal damage. In addition, its skin dries out and can burn with sun exposure, increasing the risk of infections. The layer of fat that protects manatees in the water can also cause their body temperature to rise dangerously when they are on land, which can lead to fatal consequences.
The manatees are being closely monitored by specialized personnel, Quiles Pérez said, and if necessary, measures will be taken to ensure their well-being. He added that it is important to remember that, like free-living manatees, the just-released manatees are protected by the Endangered Species Act of 1973, the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and Law 241, known as the New Puerto Rico Wildlife Law.
“We appreciate the cooperation of the public in this effort to conserve one of our most emblematic species,” Quiles Pérez said. “To report any situation that may affect manatees, you can contact the DNER Rangers Corps at (787) 999-2200, extensions 2910 or 2911. You can also use the Whale & Dolphin 911 application, available for iPhone and Android.”
