by InTrieste
On Monday, November 18, a rare and extraordinary sighting occurred near Grignano, close to Trieste: a common dolphin, a species that once thrived in the Adriatic but is now rarely seen, was spotted in the waters.
This particular dolphin is no stranger to marine biologists—it has been tracked across the region for over two years. To understand the significance of this sighting, we spoke with Dr. Tilen Genov, a marine biologist with the Marine Protected Area of Miramare, about the dolphin’s journey, its unusual behavior, and what it signifies for conservation efforts.
Dr. Genov, what makes this sighting so remarkable?
Dr. Genov: This sighting is significant for a number of reasons. First, the dolphin observed is a common dolphin (Delphinus delphis), a species that used to be abundant in the Adriatic and Mediterranean but has experienced a sharp decline since the 1970s. Unlike the bottlenose dolphin, the species we typically monitor in the Gulf of Trieste, common dolphins are now rare in this area. Their populations have not recovered, making sightings like yesterday’s an exceptional event.
Can you tell us more about this individual dolphin?
Dr. Genov: This particular dolphin has an interesting backstory. We first observed it as a calf with its mother in the port of Koper, Slovenia, in June 2022. Later that year, we spotted the pair near Trieste. After early 2023, they disappeared, but this dolphin has since been observed in multiple locations along the Croatian coast, including the islands of Rab and Krk and near Rijeka.
We’ve been able to track it through photographs and videos submitted by tourists and divers, identifying it by its distinct dorsal fin and tail fluke markings. These natural features serve as a kind of fingerprint, enabling us to monitor its movements over time.
You’ve raised concerns about the dolphin’s behavior. Could you elaborate?
Dr. Genov: This dolphin is exhibiting “solitary sociable” behavior. This happens when dolphins stop interacting with their own species and begin seeking interaction with humans instead. While it might seem endearing, this behavior poses serious risks.
Such dolphins are often injured by boats or struggle to find food on their own. Human interactions—such as feeding, touching, or chasing them with boats or paddleboards—can exacerbate these problems and lead to long-term harm. For this reason, we strongly discourage the public from interacting with the dolphin. Respectful observation from a safe distance is the best approach.
What role did the Marine Protected Area of Miramare play in this sighting?
Dr. Genov: Our colleagues at Miramare were crucial. They were informed of the sighting, confirmed it was a common dolphin, and shared photos with us. From there, we identified it as the same individual we’ve tracked since 2022. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of networks in monitoring and conserving marine species.
What does this sighting tell us about marine conservation in the Adriatic?
Dr. Genov: It highlights the need for cross-border collaboration and continued monitoring. The Adriatic is a shared ecosystem, and protecting its biodiversity requires coordination among all the countries bordering it. This dolphin’s journey—from Slovenia to Croatia and now back to the Gulf of Trieste—is a reminder of the interconnectedness of marine life and the shared responsibility we have to protect it.
What can the public do to help protect this dolphin?
Dr. Genov: The most important thing is to avoid interacting with it. This includes not approaching it with boats, kayaks, or paddleboards and refraining from touching or feeding it. Simply observing it from a distance helps ensure its safety and well-being. Public awareness and responsible behavior are critical to supporting conservation efforts.
The sighting of a common dolphin near Trieste’s shores is a rare and inspiring event, offering a glimpse into the beauty of marine life. But it also serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of our ecosystems. As Dr. Genov points out, safeguarding this dolphin and others like it requires a collective effort—from researchers to policymakers to the general public. In moments like this, we are reminded of nature’s wonders and our shared duty to protect them.
