Venice has found itself captivated by an unexpected guest: a remarkably playful, acrobatic dolphin. This wild creature, quickly nicknamed Mimmo, has charmed locals and tourists alike with his energetic displays, but his prolonged stay is raising serious concerns.
For months, Mimmo has been delighting onlookers with breathtaking flips and dives. However, experts now face a delicate challenge – how to ensure his safety in the bustling waterways of Venice, a place where human activity poses a constant threat.
A recent attempt to gently guide Mimmo towards open water, utilizing low-intensity acoustic devices, offered a brief moment of hope. Sadly, the dolphin returned to the crowded St. Mark’s Basin within an hour, confirming fears that he’s determined to stay.
The St. Mark’s Basin is a particularly dangerous location, a constant stream of ferries, water taxis, and private boats creating a high-risk environment. Veterinarian Guido Pietroluongo of the University of Padua’s CERT team describes the area as “very worrying” due to the intense boat traffic.
During the attempted relocation, experts discovered a troubling detail: Mimmo bears superficial wounds, likely inflicted by a boat propeller. While these injuries are expected to heal, they underscore the very real danger he faces in such close proximity to human vessels.
For now, a more immediate intervention isn’t planned. Experts are hoping the arrival of colder temperatures will naturally encourage Mimmo to follow his food source – schools of fish – towards warmer, safer waters further out in the lagoon.
Mimmo first appeared in the Venetian lagoon on July 23rd, likely following a school of fish into the brackish waters. He was named after the sailing instructor who initially spotted him near the fishing town of Chioggia.
Veterinarian Sandro Mazzariol describes Mimmo as a “social loner,” a young male dolphin who temporarily separates from his pod, often for foraging or social exploration. Remarkably, Mazzariol notes that around 100 similar cases have been documented globally, with these dolphins thriving despite limited interaction with their species.
While dolphin sightings aren’t entirely uncommon in Venice, they are rare. A previous incident in February 2021 involved a pair of striped dolphins who were successfully guided back to the open sea and did not return.
Throughout his time in the lagoon, Mimmo has been closely monitored and appears to be in good health, enjoying a diet that rivals any tourist – mullet, sea bass, and sea bream. His playful behavior, including his signature aerial flips, suggests he’s adapting well, despite the unusual surroundings.
The University of Padua team conducts weekly check-ups, supplemented by regular reports and sightings from concerned citizens who share photos and videos. This collaborative effort provides valuable insight into Mimmo’s well-being.
Authorities are urging the public not to feed or interact with Mimmo, as such actions are illegal and potentially harmful. Dolphins are protected by Italian, EU, and international law, and any interference could jeopardize his health and safety.
Ironically, Mimmo’s growing fame is contributing to the problem. The increased attention draws more boats, creating a spectacle that, while well-intentioned, can stress the animal and increase the risk of further injury.
