Manatee in North Creek, Grand Turk

PUBLIC NOTICE

FROM The Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR)

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands 6^th November 2024 – The Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) is aware of reports of a manatee, also known as a sea cow, in North Creek, Grand Turk. 

A video sent to DECR on Tuesday 5^th November shows a manatee feeding on turtle grass in North Creek. Antillean manatees’ natural range includes Turks and Caicos Islands, but they are leas commonly seen in TCI due to the lack of fresh water, upon which they depend to drink. Antillean manatees are found throughout the Caribbean, from the Bahamas (where populations are recovering, particularly in Andros) to Mexico and through the Greater Antilles including Hispaniola, Jamaica, amd Puerto Rico. 

DECR would like to remind the public that manatees are marine mammals, and thus enjoy full protection from harm or molestation under the Fisheries Protection Ordinance. Approaching, touching, and chasing manatees are prohibited under the Ordinance. 

Please observe the manatee from a distance, quietly, and immediately move farther away if the manatee turns away or makes sudden movements. 

Boats are a severe threat to manatees, and so DECR urges all mariners and boat operators to use reduced speed in and around North Creek. Reports on sightings amd other matters may be sent to environment@gov.tc.