Researchers suspect dolphin attacked with spear

A Port River dolphin has been spotted with what appears to be a spear wound to its tail.

Researchers suspect it is the result of a deliberate attack with a multi-pronged spear.

Dr Mike Bossley said there is not anything else that would cause such an injury.

“I can’t think of any other instrument that would make a wound like that and I can’t think of any animal that could make a wound like that on a dolphin,” Dr Bossley said.

The nine-year-old male dolphin is expected to make a full recovery.

Those who intentionally hurt or kill dolphins face a maximum penalty of a $100,000 fine or two years in jail.