Dolphin freed from netting in Ipswich river rescue

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 15 Oct, 09:02 · Archive

A common dolphin trapped in netting near Ipswich's Sir Bobby Robson Bridge was rescued by firefighters and marine wildlife specialists on 14 October. Members of the public spotted the animal in distress and alerted emergency services at 12.49pm. British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) identified the dolphin and discovered a large section of green net tightly wrapped around its beak and pectoral fins.

Despite the entanglement, the dolphin was still able to breathe and swim strongly. Firefighters from Ipswich Princes Street launched a rigid inflatable boat and worked alongside BDMLR specialists to assess the animal. After allowing time for the dolphin to become accustomed to their presence, the team secured it with a boat hook and cut away the netting. They found only minor wounds caused by the entanglement.

The animal was released back into the river and is now being monitored by BDMLR volunteers. The charity said it has 'every chance' of making its own way out of the river and back towards the sea, although plans are being considered should further intervention be required.

How it is being reported

• Dolphin freed from netting after rescue operation at Ipswich bridgeA common dolphin trapped in netting near Ipswich’s Sir Bobby Robson Bridge was rescued by firefighters and marine wildlife specialists, then released.East Anglian Daily Times · 15 Oct, 08:30
• Dolphin freed from netting after rescue operation at Ipswich bridgeA common dolphin trapped in netting near Ipswich’s Sir Bobby Robson Bridge was rescued by firefighters and marine wildlife specialists, then released.Ipswich Star · 15 Oct, 08:30

In this story: Sir Bobby Robson Bridge · River Orwell · Ipswich · British Divers Marine Life Rescue · Suffolk Fire and Rescue

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