health
Authorities investigate the discovery of a dead manatee in Santander: 17 in recent years
In the swamp of Barrancabermeja, Santander, authorities found the lifeless body of an adult manatee, three days after finding the remains of a newborn manatee in the swamp of San Silvestre, in the Magdalena Medio.
TL;DR
- An adult West Indian manatee was found dead in the Barrancabermeja swamp, Santander.
- This follows the discovery of a neonate manatee three days prior in the San Silvestre swamp.
- A total of 17 manatees of this endangered species have been found dead in Santander and Magdalena Medio in recent years.
- Environmental authorities and forensic veterinarians are conducting a necropsy to determine the cause of death.
- Investigations are also underway to check for hydrocarbon contamination in the region's water bodies.
- The deceased manatee was male, approximately 250 kg and 2.80 meters long.
- Historically, manatees were hunted in the region, but conservation efforts have changed local practices.