Humans pose the biggest risk to Venice’s celebrity dolphin
Popular Science
by Laura BaisasFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A lone bottlenose dolphin named Mimmo has become a fascinating yet concerning presence in Venice's Venetian Lagoon, drawing attention from scientists and locals alike. Since first spotted near San Marco Square in June 2025, Mimmo has been observed adapting to life in the urban waterways of one of Italy's most iconic cities. While bottlenose dolphins are known for their adaptability, researchers emphasize that Mimmo’s solitary behavior and proximity to human activity pose significant risks to his well-being.
The study, published in *Frontiers in Ethology*, highlights how Mimmo’s presence challenges the typical social structure of bottlenose dolphins, which usually live in pods. Despite appearing healthy and thriving on a diet of mullet fish, Mimmo’s location near Venice’s bustling tourist areas puts him at increased danger from boat traffic, particularly injuries caused by propellers. This risk is compounded by the fact that the Adriatic Sea has seen a decline in common dolphin populations due to human impact, leaving bottlenose dolphins as one of the few remaining species in the region.
Dr. Guido Pietroluongo and his team stress that Mimmo’s situation underscores the need for stricter regulations on boat speed and approach distances to protect marine mammals in urbanized waterways. Unlike attempts to relocate or disturb the dolphin, which have proven ineffective, focusing on managing human behavior is the most viable solution. This approach aligns with broader conservation principles that prioritize safeguarding wild animals while respecting their natural behaviors.
The researchers also note that Mimmo’s ability to adapt to such an unusual environment demonstrates the resilience of bottlenose dolphins but serves as a stark reminder of how human activities can disrupt marine ecosystems. By enforcing responsible boating practices and raising public awareness, Venice can ensure the safety of this charismatic creature while preserving its unique connection to one of the world’s most famous cities.
Mimmo’s story is not just about a dolphin in Venice—it’s a call to action for balancing urban development with wildlife conservation. As global warming and human encroachment continue to alter marine habitats, cases like Mimmo’s highlight the importance of proactive measures to protect vulnerable species. For science enthusiasts and environmentalists, this research offers valuable insights into how human behavior can
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Originally published on Popular Science on 2/25/2026