The Department of the Environment’s Environmental Protection and Research Unit (EPRU) received a call this morning at approximately 09:00hrs regarding a dolphin being trapped inside the silt curtain deployed adjacent to the Small Boats Marina. EPRU deployed its marine assets immediately.
Upon inspection at close range, and in consultation with experts, it was determined that the animal was a Common Dolphin (Delphinus delphis) which appeared to be in good physical condition. The decision was taken to open the silt curtain as soon as possible to facilitate the animal’s exit. This was carried out by contracted divers.
Both EPRU and technical officials from the Department of the Environment monitored the animal from land and sea at all times until it managed to leave the area in a westerly direction at approximately 16:30hrs.
