Cetaceans in the Boka Kotorska Bay

Abstract

The Boka Kotorska Bay, as a unique geographical area, with specific ecological conditions, was always inhabited by cetaceans. There is very little recorded data on their presence in the bay. This article presents an overview of cetacean species inhabiting the southern Adriatic Sea, with a particular focus on bottlenose dolphin and fin whale, species whose presence has been documented in the Boka Kotorska Bay. A detailed review on the presence of one of the most famous dolphins in the bay, the dolphin Joca, who was a favourite with swimmers and bathers and was awarded a special protection status by the local government of the city of Kotor has been carried out. A history of unfortunate events – accidental and intentional dolphin deaths in the last 20 years – is provided, as recorded by the society for protection of animals ‘Fifi’ from Kotor. This society of volunteers was involved in the protection of the Boka Kotorska Bay environment since its founding in 1997, and the protection of marine mammals was among its activities. An overview of the first survey of marine mammal populations in the Boka Kotorska Bay area within the frame of the EU IPA NETCET project is also provided. The results of the survey represent the first scientifically collected data on cetaceans in the area. Preservation of these species in the area of the bay requires constant involvement, education of the local population and children on the importance of preservation of cetaceans and careful development of all forms of tourism, including the nautical tourism, which is one of the gravest threats to marine mammals in the Boka Kotorska Bay area.