The solitary bottlenose dolphin, which has taken a shine to Lyme Bay this summer, has been causing a stir amongst beachgoers, with some swimming up close and touching the marine mammal.
A national newspaper shared footage of the dolphin swimming up to a family and playing, seemingly performing tricks right next to them in the water. While this particular incident appeared to be on the dolphin’s terms, it has sparked concern others will seek it out.
The same dolphin was hit by a boat propeller last month.
The News initially did not identify where the dolphin was to protect it from harassment, but the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has issued a warning detailing the importance of staying away from the creature as more seek it out.
A spokesperson for MMO, said: “We’re increasingly concerned about a lone dolphin spotted in Lyme Bay, Dorset, following multiple potential marine wildlife disturbance offences observed online and shared on social media.
“Please remember to never swim with, touch, feed, or approach dolphins. If a dolphin approaches you, calmly leave the area. Human interaction can cause dolphins to lose their natural weariness, leading to injury or even death.
“Disturbed dolphins are also known to become aggressive towards people. Dolphins may seem friendly, but they are wild animals. The dolphin in Lyme Bay has already been injured by a suspected boat propeller.
“Let’s protect them by keeping our distance.”
Dolphins are regular visitors to the west Dorset coastline with multiple sightings so far this year.
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