DLNR, NOAA Fisheries Ask Public’s Help to Protect Spinner Dolphins

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources and NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service are advising people to be “dolphin smart.”

To avoid potential harassment of spinner dolphins, ocean and beach goers should keep the recommended distance of 150 feet, or 50 yards, when observing dolphins in the wild, according to a DLNR press release.

“It is tempting to approach and interact with these animals; however, research has shown that these interactions can interfere with their natural behavior and could have population-wide effects,” DLNR chairperson William Aila Jr. said in the release.

Hawaiian spinner dolphins move near shore into bays and coves during the day to rest, care for their young and avoid predators. During this time it is important not to disturb them as these activities are critical to their survival. At night they move offshore to feed.

“Close interactions with the dolphins are not only potentially harmful to them, but can lead to harassment, which is illegal,” NOAA Fisheries Regional Administrator Michael Tosatto said in the release. “By following the responsible viewing guidelines, we can limit the impacts our activities may have on the animals.”

Spinner dolphins are named for their unique behavior of leaping out of the water and spinning in the air. These social animals travel in groups of 10, 100 or more and are believed to live over 20 years.

They are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which prohibits the “take”of marine mammals. “Take” means to harass, hunt, capture, or kill, or attempt to harass, hunt, capture or kill any marine mammal.

DLNR and NOAA Fisheries encourage all ocean users to follow Dolphin SMART guidelines, which are:

• Stay at least 50 yards from dolphins
• Move away cautiously if dolphins show signs of disturbance
• Always put your engine in neutral when dolphins are near
• Refrain from feeding, touching, or swimming with wild dolphins
• Teach others to be Dolphin SMART

The Dolphin SMART program recognizes commercial tour operators that voluntarily adhere to responsible guidelines. Visit www.dolphinsmart.org for more information and a list of approved businesses.

Report any violations of the MMPA to NOAA Fisheries’Enforcement Hotline at 1-800-853-1964.