Ailing dolphin Doc raises fears for the health of Port River dolphins

One of the most well-known Port River dolphins is seriously unwell, only weeks after the death of another of the Port’s most popular locals.

Unwell Port River dolphin Doc. Picture: Marianna Boorman

There are grave fears for the health of popular Port River dolphin ‘Doc’ who is in an emaciated condition, despite his young age of 8.

The concern comes just weeks after the death of another Port River dolphin Marianna, who died from unknown causes at the age of 15, about half the expected life span of a dolphin.

Whale and Dolphin Conservation group member Marianna Boorman said minor damage to the tips of Doc’s dorsal fin and flukes had been observed, but it was not known what had caused the injuries.

“He is very emaciated and we are very concerned about him,” she said.

A picture of Port River dolphin Doc in July, when he was in a healthy condition. Picture: Marianna Boorman

Mrs Boorman said Doc, named after marine mammal expert Dr Mike Bossley, was obviously unwell and spending more time on the surface.

But she stressed one of the worst things people could do is feed the dolphins.

“Never feed wild dolphins – it is extremely harmful for them,” she said.

“It leads them to hang around in the shallows, where they can be deliberately hurt or hit by a boat.”

Mrs Boorman said it was crucial Doc was able to rest and feed in peace.

“If going out on the water please slow down, keep a look out and keep 150m from a sick or injured dolphin,” she said.

“If fishing and Doc is nearby please reel in your fishing lines.”

Mrs Boorman said there were concerns about Doc’s environment, with local fishermen noticing less fish in the area.

A Department for Environment and Water, National Parks and Wildlife Service spokesman said while there were no signs of entanglements on Doc, his condition was still very concerning.

“The dolphin is clearly unwell and is very thin,” he said.

“The dolphin is spending most of its time in the Garden Island area, which is also one of the busiest areas for kayakers, boat users and fishers.

“The National Parks and Wildlife Service asks the public to be aware that this dolphin needs to be left undisturbed to give it the best chance of recovery.

“The service also asks the public not to feed this, or any other, dolphin.

“To do so teaches the animal to approach people or boats seeking food, possibly increasing the risk of accidents or injuries. It is also illegal and penalties may apply.

“Rangers and volunteers will continue to monitor this dolphin and hopefully it is able to recover naturally.”

There are between 30 and 40 dolphins estimated living in the Port River. Some go in and out of the river, while some stay just in the sanctuary.