Baby dolphin spotted with marine debris wrapped around its neck could die, expert says
A baby dolphin seen with marine debris wrapped around its neck near Cairns has prompted new warnings about the threat of rubbish to wildlife.
James Cook University's Isabel Beasley saw the calf swimming with its mother near Yorkeys Knob twice since the end of September.
"The calf looked healthy, and was swimming normally, but it appeared the marine debris was wrapped tightly around its neck," she said.
The debris looks like old rope or fishing net.
WWF-Australia National Species Manager Darren Grover said the calf could die if the marine debris was not removed.
"That netting could ultimately cause the calf's death as it cuts deeper and deeper into the tissue," he said.
"Sadly, this is a prime example about the danger rubbish puts marine life in."
Ms Beasley said there was also scarring around the baby's tail.
She said the mother and calf have not been seen since, calling for locals to keep an eye out for the animals and report any sightings to the RSPCA.
Ms Beasley also pointed out the dangers of marine debris.
"During my recent survey work in the Cairns region I've seen large amounts of litter in the water which can be fatal to marine creatures," she said.
World Economic Forum figures show there are over 150 million tonnes of plastic waste alone, in oceans across the world.