Dolphin Tales: Uno Fin
There is a very intriguing dolphin that lives in the waters around the Jug Creek Marina located at the end of Tortuga Street in Bokeelia. He has a variety of names but I like Uno Fin. According to Robin, who works at the marina, he showed up at the marina 9 years ago with his right pectoral fin barely hanging on. Now it is completely gone.
Uno hangs around the fishing boats with the pelicans just waiting for a morsel of fish to drop inadvertently, as the fisher folk are unloading their boats. Jug Creek provides a calm, safe haven for Uno with plenty of fishing ground in the mangroves of the creek.
Instead of arms and legs, dolphins have fins. The pectoral fin is used for steering and movement. The dorsal fin helps the dolphin maintain stability. Unfortunately, entanglement in fishing gear is one of the biggest threats to dolphin. It is estimated that over 300,000 whales and dolphins die every year after getting entangled in fishing gear. Sometimes they ingest hooks and nets, while others get caught and drown, being unable to reach the surface for air. Or, like Uno, they lose a fin.
Recently, a dolphin mom has been spotted with her dorsal fin entangled in fishing gear and her calf swimming beside her in a waterway in Clearwater, Florida. The fishing gear appears to be cutting into her dorsal fin, according the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. They are monitoring her closely.
Let’s do our part to protect our resident bottlenose dolphins as well as the manatees and sea turtles that migrate to our area. Dispose of all fishing line, lures, cast nets and any other debris properly. Even our beloved brown pelicans are at risk.
Captain Cathy Eagle has spent over 40 years boating in our local waters. As a professional charter captain she specializes in dolphin and nature tours. Visit CaptainCathy.com or call 239-994-2572.