Moko the dolphin "probably" dead - DOC

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Moko the dolphin "probably" dead - DOC

3News NZ

DOC said it was impossible to tell for sure if the dolphin was Moko without DNA testing (Sunlive.co.nz)

DOC said it was impossible to tell for sure if the dolphin was Moko without DNA testing (Sunlive.co.nz)

By Dan Satherley and James Murray

A dolphin washed ashore on Matakana Island may be Moko, the friendly bottlenose known for his playful nature.

The Department of Conservation has confirmed the dead dolphin is "probably" Moko based on his markings, size and sex.

See photos of the dolphin believed to be Moko (warning: photos are graphic)

The dolphin is also said to have similar missing teeth to Moko.

Watch a photogallery of Moko the dolphin entertaining locals

DOC spokeswoman Katrina Knill said it was impossible to tell for sure without DNA testing.

Despite this she said: "We are now working on the basis that it is him."

Leave your tribute to Moko the dolphin

Tauranga news website Sunlive.co.nz has published photos of a dead dolphin which was found this morning. It appears to have been dead for about two weeks.

DOC says Moko was last seen alive early last month. On June 17 they asked the public to report any sightings of him, though people familiar with Moko weren't overly concerned for his safety as he'd disappeared before.

"That dolphin has survived through thick and thin so far," said Mahia resident Bill Shortt told NZPA at the time. "He has gone for longer and had us worried but then he will just reappear out of nowhere."

Moko's friendly nature earned him a nationwide following and his own DoC minders – who were trusted to protect him from the public as well as the public from him.

"Moko is a wild animal and he should be treated with the utmost respect," said DoC ranger Jamie Quirk.

DoC staff are working to identify the dolphin and find out if it is indeed Moko.

3 News

Watch raw footage of Moko the dolphin, as he plays alongside beach goers

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Comments

11/07/2010 9:02:32 p.m.

Ian Carter wrote:

I bet that it is discovered that Moko was killed by ingesting rubbish that is often discharged from dirty ships that come into Tauranga. He would have been so much safer to have not come into Tauranga and those who enticed him here need to take responsibility for his death and suffering.

9/07/2010 8:03:20 a.m.

V wrote:

Just how one how many saps are running the place. From the same Global Warming screatures, the One hand clapping, the ghosts and spirits twaddle.

8/07/2010 11:07:35 p.m.

Rob wrote:

R.i.p Moko,wish i could have had the opportunity of seeing you in action.
Its weird but the good always seem to die young,20+ years to early mate but if there are people out there willing to attack such an awesome creature and icon i believe you came and done what you were here to do.If one clown can do it there will be others in the future,i just hope its natural causes and not something from been attacked by that dickhead who obviously has mental problems or someone else who had their tough undies on and hurt him.
To all who had the pleasure of getting close to Moko im sorry for your loss.

8/07/2010 7:21:56 p.m.

PJ wrote:

Moko,you will be sadly missed, there should be a memorial in your honour.

8/07/2010 6:15:31 p.m.

Mani wrote:

Poor Moko: He should be bury on the shores of Matakana Island and DOC should buggar off,who the hell do they think they r

8/07/2010 4:33:30 p.m.

leah wrote:

aww sad as.. poor moko r.i.p