In recent weeks, an increased presence of dolphins and other cetaceans has been recorded in the marine areas of Cyprus.
An increasing number of dolphins and other cetaceans have been spotted in waters around Cyprus in recent weeks, according to an announcement by the country's Department of Fisheries and Marine Research.
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The phenomenon is a positive sign for the eastern Mediterranean, indicating a recovering marine ecosystem capable of supporting biodiversity.
It has led authorities to seek new ways to protect the mammals, which are protected by national and European legislation.
Boat operators urged to take special care around dolphins
The Department of Fisheries and Marine Research has urged operators of recreational boats, fishing boats and other watercraft to exercise special care if they spot marine mammals in their vicinity. Vessel operators should immediately reduce speed, maintain a steady course and avoid abrupt manoeuvres that may disturb the animals.
The authorities stress that chasing, encircling or obstructing the dolphins is prohibited, and it is recommended to maintain a safe distance and avoid staying close to them for a prolonged period of time. Particular emphasis is also placed on avoiding loud noises, loud music or other activities that may cause stress to the animals.
In the event that dolphins approach a vessel on their own, operators are instructed to continue at low speed without attempting to interact with the animals.
Finally, the Department reinforces that harassment, feeding or any interference that affects the natural behaviour of protected species - such as moving, breeding or resting - is strictly prohibited and may result in penalties under applicable laws.
Cetaceans face threats from human activity in the Mediterranean
The survival of the eight listed cetacean species hangs in the balance due to a number of deadly human threats.
Sound pollution is one of the greatest hazards for marine mammals in the Eastern Mediterranean. The intensive use of military mid-frequency sonar during naval exercises, combined with underwater seismic surveys to locate hydrocarbons, is proving fatal.
These deafening noises destroy the animals' sensitive echolocation system, causing internal bleeding and extreme disorientation. This phenomenon is also directly linked to the repeated incidents of mass strandings of Cuvier’s beaked whales on the Cypriot coast.
Fishing activity poses another threat, as the daily battle for food brings cetaceans into direct conflict with boats. Accidental entanglement as bycatch in nets and on longlines can lead to drowning, as the mammals are unable to surface to breathe.
The situation is exacerbated by the dramatic decline in fish stocks due to overfishing, but also by so-called 'ghost gear' - abandoned fishing gear that becomes a deadly trap on the seabed.
The sharp increase in maritime traffic in the Cypriot EEZ has further multiplied accidents. Commercial vessels, speedboats and pleasure craft often cause fatal amputations and propeller injuries. The situation was considered so serious that the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research was forced to issue urgent recommendations to charterers, asking them to immediately reduce speed and avoid approaching pods.
In addition to the immediate risks, cetaceans suffer from chronic degradation of their environment. Ingestion of plastics and microplastics causes incurable blockages in their digestive systems, leading the animals to a slow death from starvation. At the same time, heavy metals and chemical waste accumulate through the food chain in their fat, destroying their immune and reproductive systems.
