A much-loved bottlenose dolphin that captured hearts earlier this month after joyfully swimming alongside a family in Lyme Bay has been injured, with experts blaming a boat propeller.
On August 3, Lynda MacDonald, 50, was enjoying a morning swim with her partner, son, and his girlfriend when the wild dolphin joined them, playfully dancing upright in the water, seeking belly rubs, and even guiding swimmers with its beak. The encounter, which was caught on video, quickly went viral. But the joyful scene has taken a tragic turn. The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has now confirmed the dolphin has sustained injuries “most likely” caused by a high-speed watercraft or boat propeller.
“Dolphins may seem friendly, but they are wild animals,” an MMO spokesperson said. “The dolphin in Lyme Bay has already been injured by a suspected boat propeller.
“Please remember: Never swim with, touch, feed, or approach dolphins. If a dolphin approaches you, calmly leave the area.”
Marine experts warn that human contact can cause dolphins to lose their natural caution, making them more vulnerable to harm. Close interaction can also lead to stress, disrupt feeding and migration, and even provoke aggression towards people.
The incident is part of a worrying pattern. In Cornwall last week, at least five dolphins were reported injured, some with dorsal fins completely severed, allegedly after encounters with the Mevagissey to Fowey ferry.
Liz Sandeman, of charity Marine Connection, told the BBC that solitary dolphins often become accustomed to boats and swimmers when they linger near shore, increasing their risk of injury.
“This individual dolphin needs protection now more than ever,” she said. “Solitary, sociable dolphins represent a unique behavioural group that requires focused conservation efforts.”
The MMO and other wildlife organisations are now urging boat owners to reduce their speed and stay at least 100 metres away from dolphins, while also asking the public not to feed or attempt to touch them.
Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, disturbing a dolphin can result in up to six months in prison and an unlimited fine.
For Lynda, who described her meeting with the dolphin as “magical,” the news is bittersweet.
“The sea belongs to dolphins – we were lucky to spend a moment with it,” she said. “We were mindful; we played for five minutes and then let it go on its way.”
With around 700 coastal bottlenose dolphins in UK waters, conservationists say encounters like Lynda’s should remain a privilege – and not a pursuit – if these remarkable animals are to be protected for future generations.