An unusual visitor has called Belmar home for the last several days — and experts are hoping it finds its way south before the chill of autumn arrives.

The first sightings of a manatee happened Saturday off the docks on the Shark River, and it was reportedly seen as recently as last night.

Experts say it's rare but not impossible for a manatee to make it this far north.

The Marine Mammal Stranding Center says this could be the same manatee seen in the Cape Cod region in July, slowly making its way south.

Manatees need warm water, and with cooler days and longer nights, the inlet and river water temperature are beginning to drop.

Boaters are being urged to use caution.

"Give it plenty of room. Give it plenty of space. Don't try and feed it. They are federally protected. If you're on a boat, just slow down, especially if you're in the shallower waters of the back bay," said Jay Pagel of the Marine Mammal Stranding Center.

For now, the center is only monitoring the situation. If the manatee can get back out to the open ocean and head south, no action will be taken. But if water temperatures dip below 68 degrees, a relocation team may be sent to the area.