Venice’s famous dolphin could be removed from lagoon due to tourist boat risk
Fears grow over safety of dolphin at popular tourist landmark
- A bottlenose dolphin, nicknamed Mimmo, has been residing in the Venetian lagoon since June, becoming a popular sight for tourists.
- Locals and experts have expressed serious concerns for Mimmo's safety due to the heavy tourist boat traffic in the lagoon, fearing it could be killed.
- The dolphin's unusual solitary behaviour and tendency to approach boats suggest it may be staying for easy food despite the disruptive noise from vessels.
- Residents have launched a social media campaign and planned a flash mob to raise awareness and advocate for Mimmo's relocation to a safer habitat.
- Authorities, including the Cetacean Strandings Emergency Response Team (CERT), are monitoring Mimmo's health and welfare, noting it is in good condition and accustomed to human-influenced environments.