Hector’s dolphins live close to the coast, making them highly vulnerable to being caught in set nets. Photo: Stephen JaquieryBy-catch deaths of five Hector’s dolphins in fishing nets off the Canterbury coast has prompted an order to fast-track work on a new protection plan for the nationally endangered species. Hector’s dolphins live close to the coast, making them highly vulnerable to being caught in set nets. Official records show 188 Hector’s and Maui dolphin are known to have been killed in set nets since 1973, although potential Hector’s dolphin captures could range between 19 and 78 each year. “In light of this capture, I have asked officials to prioritise the development of a new plan,” Nash said.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 20, 2018 00:51 UTC