A bottlenose dolphin named ‘stumpy’ spotted recently in Dorset is believed to be part of a South West population, which is the third population of dolphins identified in the UK.
Other populations include the Moray Firth dolphins in Scotland and the Cardigan Bay dolphins in Wales.
Photo identification, scars and nicks in the dorsal fins help marine conservationists and researchers identify individual members of the group. ‘Stumpy,’ a bottlenose dolphin, named for the missing tip of its dorsal fin, has been seen in Falmouth,Penzance, Newquay and Padstow in Cornwall, and is now thought to be a member of the resident dolphin population in South West England.
Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Marine Awareness Officer, Julie Hatcher said, “The South West population, which ranges from Dorset to Cornwall, often splits into smaller groups of 3 or 4, or slightly larger groups of around 20 animals. Although it is not known exactly how many animals are resident in the South West group as a whole, a number of young dolphins have been recorded in recent years, which is encouraging.”
DWT recommends that to help protect these marine giants in their natural habitat, boats must follow the marine code of conduct when near dolphins in the sea. Dolphins are protected by law from disturbance and injury.
Julie continues, “Rules include not driving directly towards them, maintaining a steady course and speed so they can predict your movements and avoid boats if necessary, and not splitting up the group. Boat users should also be aware of other vessels around the dolphins and not box them in – move away if there are more than 2 vessels within 1km. Often, dolphins will decide to come over to you, but it must be their choice.”
DWT would like to hear about your dolphin sightings. Please share videos and pictures taken in Dorset via [email protected], Twitter (@dorsetwildlife) and facebook/DorsetWildlife. Find out more information about the Marine Code of Conduct at: https://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk/marine-code-of-conduct/
