109 marine mammal bycatch incidents reported in NZ, with Dolphin Defenders calling for increased protection and review of Marine Mammal Sanctuaries.
A new report by NZ's Department of Conservation reveals 109 marine mammal bycatch incidents from July 2022-June 2023, involving species like dolphins, orcas, and seals. The Dolphin Defenders argue for increased protection, stating that observer coverage on fishing vessels has been low, and the installation of cameras led to a 600% increase in reported Hector's dolphin trawl deaths. The group calls for the government to protect endangered species and review the effectiveness of Marine Mammal Sanctuaries in preventing trawler impacts.
August 27, 2024
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