A dolphin that is believed to have been in the Tamar River since January could be unwell, authorities have confirmed.
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A Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment spokesman said its Marine Conservation Program had received numerous reports of a dolphin in the North Esk River in Launceston.
They said MCP was monitoring the dolphin and was aware that it could be unwell.
"The dolphin appears to have developed issues associated with prolonged exposure to fresh water and MCP staff are consulting with interstate experts as well as veterinarians to develop a response plan if intervention is required," they said.
The dolphin was spotted swimming in the North Esk on Wednesday morning, after being first sighted in a similar location in January.
DPIWE said limited visibility and the confined nature of the river could affect the dolphin's ability to avoid vessel interactions, with people who use the river asked to be vigilant and keep their distance.
"Members of the public should not attempt to catch or move the dolphin" DPIPWE said.
Sightings of whales and dolphins in Tasmanian waters should be reported to 0427 WHALES.
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Jessica Willard
Being a health reporter to me is about more than just reporting the problems. It's about asking why they are happening in the first place and what needs to change to fix it.
Being a health reporter to me is about more than just reporting the problems. It's about asking why they are happening in the first place and what needs to change to fix it.
