Arabic version: تم رصد دلفين في نهر يارا من المحتمل أنه يبحث عن الطعام

A dolphin has been spotted swimming in Melbourne’s Yarra River, reaching as far as Herring Island at South Yarra. According to ABC News, researchers believe the animal is an adult bottlenose dolphin in good health.

David Donnelly from the Dolphin Research Institute stated that the dolphin appears to be a single individual, likely chasing prey. He noted the dolphin’s behavior seems normal, suggesting that it has followed food into the river. Recent larger tides may have contributed to pushing saltwater further upstream, facilitating the dolphin’s presence.

While the dolphin has been seen near the CBD and in the inner-east, experts advise the public not to approach the animal closely. The Dolphin Research Institute recommends keeping a distance of at least 100 meters from dolphins in boats, 300 meters on jet skis, and 30 meters for paddlers and swimmers.

Donnelly emphasized that the dolphin’s appearance does not indicate any water quality issues in the Yarra. Port Phillip Bay, home to more than 120 bottlenose dolphins, has seen these animals venture into the river from time to time, especially during the colder months.