Port River dolphin death sparks State Government investigation

The State Government launches an investigation into dolphin health following the mysterious death of another well-known Port River dolphin – the third suspected dolphin death in the past three months.

A spate of unexplained dolphin deaths and disappearances in the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary has sparked a State Government investigation into the pod’s health.

Environment Minister David Speirs has directed his department to undertake “a thorough investigation” to ensure the dolphins are protected and can continue to live safely.

“Given recent events, it is important that we take a closer look and we hope to learn more about the possible causes of death of the dolphins through necropsy procedures and further testing,” Mr Speirs said.

“Under my direction, the Department for Environment and Water will lead the investigation and will be seeking input from a dolphin expert reference group which is made up of independent, qualified veterinarians and experts with experience in the management of marine mammals, as well as researchers and other relevant government departments.”

The SA Museum is assessing recent dolphin deaths and undertaking additional testing, while Mr Speirs will give “further consideration” to other areas that may require investigation.

This could extend to the water quality testing and monitoring Whale and Dolphin Conservation volunteers have been calling for.

Previous research by the Environment Protection Authority found high levels of the persistent pollutant PFAS in Port River dolphins, with unknown effects.

Dolphin groups are devastated after the death of beloved dolphin Tallula, and are concerned with the rapid disappearance of dolphins near Garden Island.

The body of the male dolphin was found on Monday by members of the Garden Island Yacht Club and is suspected to be the third dolphin death in as many months, with Doc and Twinkle disappearing in June and July respectively.

His body will be taken to the SA Museum for a post-mortem to investigate the cause of death.

Tallula tail walking in the Port River. Picture: Marianna Boorman

Tallula with Autumn leaves. Picture: Marianna Boorman

Whale and Dolphin Conservation volunteer Marianna Boorman said the group was devastated by the death and disappearances.

“Doc, Twinkle and Talulla, resident dolphins that we observe regularly all became unwell and appeared emaciated before they went missing or passed away,” she said.

“It is important the government does everything possible to determine the cause of Talulla’s death and find out if it could be related to why Twinkle and Doc were also very unwell and appeared emaciated before they went missing.

“Dolphins face natural threats such as disease and being attacked by sharks but they also face many threats from humans, including being fed, boat strike, entanglement and the effects of pollution.”

Port River Dolphin Watch founder Jenni Wyrsta said the group also held grave fears for the health and numbers of dolphins in the area.

“The number of dolphins is dropping rapidly, it really needs to be investigated,” Ms Wyrsta said.

“When I started the watch nine years ago there were 50 dolphins and there’s now less than 20 residents.

“Something is going on and it needs to be investigated or we’ll lose the lot.”

Tallula with his mother, Wave. Picture: Barbara Saberton.

Tallula, who was 12 years old, was famous for getting up close and personal with watchers, and performing spectacular tail walks.

Doc was only eight years old, and Twinkle was 20 when they went missing.

Bottlenose dolphins generally live for 40 years or more.

Ms Wyrsta said a number of dolphins presenting with blisters on their skin was evidence that something may have changed with the water quality or food supply for the mammals in the area.