Marine wildlife killed by boat hits

THE Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) is urging recreational boat and jet ski users to keep their distance after two marine animals have been found dead this year.

Earlier this month, a juvenile dolphin was found at Queenscliff Beach with a large gash on the top of its head and a green sea turtle was found at Williamstown with a large crack in its shell.

DELWP Wildlife Officer Suriya Vij said both wounds to the animals were fatal and thought to be caused by a boat strike.

“The dolphin’s wound is consistent with head trauma with fracture of the skull and internal cranial bleeding. The fatal wound is likely consistent with injury caused by a boat propeller.”

“The green sea turtle was found dead in at Jawbone Flora and Fauna Reserve, a marine sanctuary.

“The strike to the turtle’s shell was so severe and resulted in hitting the lung as well, which caused a lung infection.

“The fact a marine animal was killed in a marine sanctuary is disturbing. We are privileged to have marine mammals in our waters, but it’s important to remember to keep your distance.”

“We are asking water users to behave responsibly around marine wildlife to ensure these amazing animals aren’t harmed or stressed in their natural environment.”

Recreational boats must remain 100 metres away from dolphins, except if approached.

Jet skis must remain 300 metres away from dolphins, and when walking or swimming the public must stay 30 metres away from a seal on land, and five metres from a seal on structures like Chinaman’s Hat.

For more information on the regulations, visit delwp.vic.gov.au or phone 136 186.

Phone the Whale and Dolphin Emergency Hotline on 1300 136 017 to report a whale or dolphin that is stranded, entangled or struck by a vessel.

If you see injured, sick or distressed marine wildlife, phone the AGL Marine Response Unit on 1300 AGL MRU (1300 245 678).