LAST WEEK, Dolphin Research Australia Moreton Bay sighted “Raggedy” as he socialised and fed with a fellow resident Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin off Lamb Island.
Raggedy, an Australian humpback buangan dolphin, is recognised by the very large scars on his dorsal fin and caudal peduncle, which would have been caused, at some point in his life, from shark attacks.
While Raggedy enjoys his life in the Moreton Bay waters between the Port of Brisbane to Russell Island, the Dolphin Research Centre warns that all is not what it seems from the surface.
“The increasing population, and a major port, has led to rapid changes increased pressures to the habitats and wildlife of the Bay in recent decades.
“This has seen increased pollution, sedimentation, habitat degradation, coastal development, boating, fishing and tourism activities in the Bay, which in turn presents a cocktail of threats to the local dolphin populations.”
Due to these conditions, a research centre spokesperson said: “A key message is, look out and give the dolphins space, and reel in the line while you see them.”
Research by The Moreton Bay Centre goes towards ensuring the protection and conservation of the dolphin populations.
“These dolphins are not only important to sustain a functioning ecosystem, but also economically and culturally,” Dolphin Research Moreton Bay said. “The Quandamooka People have shared a strong connection with the dolphins (Buangan) for generations. Yet, the future of dolphins in Moreton Bay is uncertain in the face of cumulative pressures posed by human activities which raise concerns about the health, well-being and status of these populations.
“Our research is critical to ensuring the protection and conservation of the dolphin populations by providing an understanding of their health and status.’’
If you see dolphins in the Bay, let the research centre know at: Moreton Bay Dolphin Population – Dolphin Research Australia.Org.
