Doubtful Sound bottlenose dolphin

Research undertaken in Doubtful Sound complex has identified that the resident population of bottlenose dolphins is in such steep decline that it could face extinction by 2050.  As the agency legally responsible for the protection of marine mammals the Department of Conservation is taking these research findings very seriously.

The Doubtful Sound complex is of considerable significance to many stakeholders and iwi. They include agencies who hold legislative responsibilities in Fiordland, those companies that hold consent to undertake a range of activities to those who recreate in this outstanding natural environment.

Bottlenose dolphin discussion document

We are aware that there are many different views as to the extent of the threats these dolphins face and until now there has not been an opportunity for all these views, ideas and possible solutions to be considered.

Through this discussion document we have summarised the research findings, outlined the threats believed to be contributing to this population decline and have outlined possible management options which could slow or even possibly prevent this decline.

We ask that you consider this document and provide us with your views, comments and suggestions so that we are able to be fully informed of the possiblities for, and implications of increased protection of the bottlenose dolphins of the Doubtful Sound complex.