Dolphins return to the Bronx River in New York for the first time in almost six years.

Although they were recently spotted in the city’s East River, this is the first time the animals have been seen in the Bonks River since 2017.

The authorities keep a large number of fish in the river, which, in their opinion, could attract dolphins.

The city’s Parks and Recreation Department tweeted a video taken by a man who saw dolphins.

It’s true – dolphins were spotted in the Bronx River this week! This is great news – it shows that years of efforts to restore the river as a healthy habitat are working. We believe that these dolphins have naturally found their way to the river in search of fish.
(Video: Nick Banco) pic.twitter.com/40ZNgBjJZs

— New York City Parks (@NYCParks) January 19, 2023

However, the joyful reception of the arrival of mammals came with one caveat. “Make sure they feel comfortable during their visit, give them space and don’t disturb them.”

The Bronx River flows through the borough of the same name north of Manhattan and is the only freshwater river in an American metropolitan area.

The presence of dolphins has also been confirmed by the Bronx River Alliance, a non-profit organization working to protect and restore the waterway.

“Looks like there are more dolphins swimming near New York Harbor!” the organization wrote on social media. “We’re not sure why, but authorities are continuing to investigate their presence.”

Pollution and habitat destruction have reduced the number of bottlenose dolphins found along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. Some also get injured by nets and die.

Consequently, they are protected throughout the United States under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which prohibits feeding or harassing them.

Dolphins are one of the smartest animals on the planet. The US military uses them to detect underwater mines and identify enemy troops.

Source: BBC