Solitary dolphins in Rijeka Bay and near Rab Island – people warned not to approach 

(Photo credit: Blue World Institute)

In the past few weeks, two solitary common dolphins have been present near Rab and in the Rijeka Bay on Croatia’s northern Adriatic coast.

The Blue World Institute has reported about this and has advice for people in the area. Below is their statement in full.

Since solitary dolphins exhibit unusual behaviour – staying close to the shore and beaches, allowing people to approach them or approaching people themselves, following boats, etc. – their presence has attracted significant public attention, especially in the past week due to the increasing number of swimmers and boats on the sea.

Since the appearance of these two common dolphins, we have been regularly going out to monitor their condition and take photographs for later identification. We have observed both dolphins on multiple occasions, and based on our observations, we can say that they are in good overall condition, indicating that they are feeding normally. 

Additionally, the dolphins are not disoriented or lost; their behaviour is characteristic of solitary individuals. They do not have any significant injuries on their bodies, only superficial skin scratches, and the dolphin in Rab has healed injuries on its tail. Therefore, there is currently no need to worry about their health.

(Photo credit: Blue World Institute)

What should concern us and require our full attention is the relationship between humans and dolphins. Unfortunately, the behavior of solitary dolphins, especially their interaction with humans, often has fatal consequences for them, and it can also result in serious injuries to humans. Therefore, we urge all swimmers to be cautious and avoid approaching the dolphins. You can read more about it here: https://www.blue-world.org/solitary-short-beaked-common…

Dolphins are strictly protected animals, and it is prohibited to disturb and harass them (attempting to feed, swim with, touch, or chase them). To ensure the well-being and safety of both humans and these two dolphins:

Do not attempt to feed the dolphins.

Do not approach or attempt to touch the dolphins or swim with them.

Provide them with enough space for undisturbed movement and do not chase the dolphins.

(Photo credit: Blue World Institute)

You can report your observations of any marine mammals through the Marine Ranger mobile application: https://marine-ranger.org . Depending on whether you are reporting your observation or want to report harassment, chasing, or the discovery of an injured or entangled animal, the application will provide you with the option to contact the authorities (service 112) and relevant professional organisations (like Blue World Institute).