By The Nexus Gazette.
03/08/2024.
In an unusual and heartwarming sight, a common dolphin, affectionately nicknamed “Jo Jo,” was spotted swimming in the River Thames between the Hammersmith and Putney bridges on Thursday evening. This rare event has sparked curiosity and concern among Londoners and marine life experts alike.
While dolphins are sometimes seen in the Thames Estuary near the North Sea, their presence in the bustling waters of West London is quite uncommon. Jo Jo’s unexpected appearance has captured the attention of residents and tourists, who were delighted to witness such a majestic creature in the heart of the city.There are several theories as to why Jo Jo ventured so far up the Thames:
- Improved Water Quality: The River Thames has seen significant improvements in water quality over recent years. Cleaner waters have led to an increase in fish populations, which may attract dolphins further upstream in search of food.
- Wind Farms and Displacement: Some experts suggest that the expansion of wind farms in the North Sea could be displacing marine mammals, prompting them to explore new areas, such as the Thames.
- Echo-Location Challenges: The winding nature of the Thames might pose challenges for dolphins’ echo-location abilities, potentially causing navigation issues.
- Jo Jo was last seen heading toward Chelsea, but subsequent sightings have been sporadic. The Port of London Authority recently shared a photo of a dolphin in Gravesend Reach, Kent, raising the possibility that Jo Jo may have returned to the estuary. However, without conclusive identification, it’s unclear if it’s the same dolphin.
The British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) has advised the public to report any sightings of Jo Jo or other marine life in the River Thames or other inland waterways. They emphasize the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of these animals while allowing people to enjoy these rare encounters.As Jo Jo continues to explore the Thames, Londoners are reminded of the rich biodiversity that can exist even in urban settings. This sighting is a reminder of the ongoing efforts to improve water quality and protect marine life in the UK.
Resources:
1.https://www.msn.com/en-xl/news/other/dolphin-spotted-in-river-thames-in-west-london/ar-BB1r67IQ
2.https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cn0902zgv3do