Peale’s dolphin  (Lagenorhynchus australis)

Although reported to be relatively common within its range, no population estimates are available for Peale’s dolphin (1) (2) (7). There is also a lack of information on the impacts of the threats to the species, making it difficult to assess its conservation status (1). Peale’s dolphin has been heavily exploited since the 1970s for use as crab bait, a practice which is thought to have reduced the species’ abundance by the late 1980s (1) (2) (7). Although now banned, the practice still occurs in Chile, although at lower levels than before (1) (4) (7). There is concern that the number of Peale’s dolphins taken could lead to problems for the species, especially given its restricted distribution (6).

Peale’s dolphin is also occasionally entangled and drowned in gillnets, and sometimes caught in anti-predator nets around salmon pens in Chile, although this is thought to occur only at low levels (1) (2) (4) (7). Other potential threats to Peale’s dolphin include organochlorine pollution (11), and any threats to the kelp forests on which the species depends (8). Tour operators have also recently begun offering trips to see Peale’s dolphins near Punta Arenas in Chile, but no laws exist to regulate this activity or to monitor its potential impacts (7).

More information is needed on the extent of the exploitation of Peale’s dolphin for crab bait (4) (7). The Chilean government has undertaken some measures to help regulate the use of marine mammals in crab fisheries, including educating fishing communities and providing alternative sources of bait, and the practice of using dolphins as bait is reported to have declined in recent years. However, a certain amount of illegal fishing and baiting may continue (7).

Other recommended conservation actions for Peale’s dolphin include further research into its biology and abundance, identification and protection of key habitats, education campaigns, and enforcement of hunting regulations (1) (11). In addition to its listing on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) (3), meaning international trade in Peale’s dolphin should be carefully controlled, the species is also listed on Appendix II of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) (12), based on the fact that its movement through the Beagle Channel and Strait of Magellan is likely to involve the national boundaries of Argentina and Chile (11).