Louisiana Daily Photo via rl reeves jr

The first manatee sighting in Louisiana was reported in 1937 in Cameron Parish. This sign, posted west of the Rigolets in New Orleans 9th Ward, warns boaters and swimmers to keep a weather eye for the massive animals. A mature manatee can weigh more than a ton and reach lengths of 15 feet. Quite formidable in size manatees are docile creatures but still pose a hazard for boaters who may accidentally collide with the creatures.