Australia's only dolphin in danger of extinction

Rescue plan for Australian dolphin


Experts are working on a rescue plan to save the only dolphin unique to Australia.

The snubfin dolphin is in grave danger of extinction from the combined threats of fishing nets, boat strikes, increased shipping and large scale coastal development.

Researchers know there are isolated pods of the dolphins in Australia's tropical waters, and are working to determine how many might be left.

What is certain is that without a detailed strategy to protect the mammals and their habitat, the species is doomed, the conservation group World Wildlife Fund (WWF) says.

The federal environment department is meeting marine mammal experts in Townsville today and tomorrow to get the latest information on the status of the species.

"These animals are right on the edge. The loss of just two or three dolphins off Townsville in one year, for example, could trigger the extinction of this local population," says Lydia Gibson, tropical marine species manager for the conservation group WWF.

WWF says one of they key issues that will determine the snubfin's fate is how well Australia manages large-scale coastal developments.

"It's no secret that coastal development along the Queensland coast and across tropical Australia is accelerating at a very rapid pace. Without designated sanctuaries and a strategic approach to development we stand a very real risk of losing these unique animals," Ms Gibson says.

Large-scale LNG developments proposed for Gladstone, plans to expand Townsville's port, and oil and gas expansion in Australia's north-west, along with fishing activities, are all threatening snubfin habitat, WWF says.

"The recent likely extinction of the Yangtze river dolphin is a stark reminder of the need to protect inshore dolphins," Ms Gibson says.

"It is vital we lead the way and take decisive action to ensure our only endemic dolphin does not suffer the same fate."

WWF is also pushing for the establishment of dolphin sanctuaries, go-slow zones for recreational boaters in critical snubfin habitat, and more money for indigenous sea rangers.