Inshore trawl - Bottlenose, Dusky & Common dolphin accidental capture
Issue
Bottlenose, dusky and common dolphins occasionally get caught in inshore trawl nets.
Risk
Bottlenose, dusky and common dolphins are protected species. Bottlenose dolphin are listed by the Department of Conservation as 'Range Restricted', with dusky and common dolphins being listed as 'Not Threatened'. The risk to these dolphin population from inshore trawl fishing is unknown.
Extent of the issue
Bottlenose, dusky and common dolphins are sometimes caught by vessels in inshore trawl fisheries. We have limited observer coverage in these fisheries and so little idea of the number of seal deaths.
Trends
unknown
Current management
Trawl restrictions have been brought in in areas of known Hector's and Maui dolphin range. These restrictions might also reduce captures of bottlenose, dusky and common dolphins in these areas.
Future management
Observer coverage on inshore trawl vessels has been increased in 2009. This information may give a better estimate of bottlenose, dusky and common dolphin deaths in these fisheries and will be used to inform future management actions.
