The public have been urged not to harass a sturgeon found near Bermuda after videos emerged appearing to show the fish being pulled out of the water.

Beachgoers reported spotting the four-foot Atlantic sturgeon, rarely seen in Bermuda waters, off South Shore on Saturday.

However, earlier this week a video began to spread on social media showing the fish being taken out of the water.

A spokesman for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources said the department was aware of the video, adding: “At this stage, it is unclear whether the fish was later returned safely into the water.

“While Atlantic sturgeon are an endangered species in the US, there is currently no Bermuda law that protects this species in local waters.

“Based on existing legislation, this does not appear to be a matter where fisheries wardens could issue a fine or pursue prosecution.

“However, DENR strongly advises members of the public not to disturb, handle or remove this fish from the water if sighted.”

The spokesman added that after the initial reports of the fish, scientists with the US-based National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration contacted the department and requested additional information.

He said: “They advised that the fish may contain a research tracking tag.

“DENR is asking anyone with information about the whereabouts or condition of the fish to contact the department immediately, whether the fish is alive or dead.”

The spokesman added that DENR can be reached at 293-5600 during working hours or 705-3474 after hours.

According to NOAA Fisheries, Atlantic sturgeon live in rivers and coastal waters from Canada to Florida.

The species was fished to the brink of extinction for meat and caviar, with the species now listed as threatened or endangered across much of its native range.

While they are not an open-ocean fish and are rarely seen on the island, individuals occasionally turn up near the island if they are swept off course during their normal migration.