Marine wildlife officials are asking boaters on the St. Johns River to be on the look out after an emaciated dolphin was seen entangled in fishing line near Jaxport’s Blount Island last week.
Members of UNF’s Marine Mammal Research Team spotted the animal during a survey but lost sight of it before they could assess its condition.
The dolphin appeared to be towing additional gear—possibly fishing equipment—still attached to the line. Its compromised condition heightened concerns that it might not survive without quick intervention.
“We’re hoping to find it again quickly,” the group wrote in a Facebook post over the weekend.
Boaters, anglers, and waterfront residents are urged to immediately report any sightings to FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC or *FWC from a cell phone.
Some commenters speculated that photos showed that the dolphin was caught in a cast net.
“For your safety and the dolphin’s, please DO NOT attempt to cut the line or disentangle it yourself,” the agency warned. “FWC’s Marine Mammal Biologists are highly trained and have the tools and skills necessary to assist our local marine mammals safely.”
