Dolphin found dead on Invercargill beach died from toxoplasmosis
A pregnant Hector's dolphin found dead on an Invercargill beach died from toxoplasmosis.
The dolphin was carrying a male calf when it was found on Oreti Beach on 20 August.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) said toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease that reproduces in cats and is a significant threat to dolphins.
DOC marine species manager Michelle Boyle said the loss of the female and her calf was significant for the threatened species.
"Hector's dolphins are found only in New Zealand waters and every individual is important to the population and its recovery," she said.
Around 15,000 Hector's dolphins over the age of one remain.
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