MIAMI (AP) - The manatee may no longer be classified as an "endangered" animal.

The U-S Fish and Wildlife Service says it's considering changing the classification to "threatened." An internal memo obtained by the Washington Post says Florida manatees are showing positive growth and adult survival rates, and no longer meet the definition of an endangered species.

The animals would still remain protected under the federal Endangered Species Act, making it illegal to harass, poach or kill them.

The wildlife service says a five-year review of manatees will be released later this week. A spokesman says it could take some time before the reclassification is officially proposed.

(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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