Marine rescuers say newborn dolphin calves are especially vulnerable during busy holiday weekend traffic

NEW JERSEY — As Memorial Day weekend crowds pour onto New Jersey waterways, marine wildlife officials are urging boaters and jet ski riders to slow down and stay alert as bottlenose dolphin calving season reaches peak activity along the Jersey Shore.

The Marine Mammal Stranding Center issued the public warning Friday, reminding residents and visitors that newborn dolphin calves are now active in coastal waters throughout New Jersey.

Officials said the young dolphins cannot swim as quickly as adults and are at greater risk of being struck or injured by boats and personal watercraft.

The organization asked boaters to give dolphins plenty of space while enjoying the holiday weekend on the water.

According to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, bottlenose dolphins regularly inhabit New Jersey waters during the warmer months, and calving season brings increased sightings of mothers traveling alongside newborn calves.

Marine wildlife experts warned that close encounters with speeding vessels can place the animals in danger.

The center also reminded the public to report distressed marine mammals or sea turtles immediately by calling the organization’s 24-hour hotline at (609) 266-0538.

Officials said the hotline is monitored around the clock for stranded, injured, or endangered marine wildlife cases.

The warning comes as beaches, marinas, and coastal waterways across New Jersey prepare for one of the busiest boating weekends of the year.

Key Points

Marine officials warned boaters about dolphin calving season in New Jersey waters
Newborn bottlenose dolphin calves are vulnerable to boats and jet skis

Residents are urged to report distressed marine animals to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center