August 2025

Marine mammals continue to make news in Nags Head this summer (Photo Susan Dotterer Dixon).

Last Saturday, pier angler Joyce Chung photographed a manatee swimming by in the ocean! According to Director Mike Remige, there’s been at least one sighting of manatee for 15 seasons in a row.

They typically meander up to Chesapeake Bay and then head back down to Florida in the fall when coastal waters get chilly.

In other news, Outer Banks Marine Mammal Network responders recorded a deceased bottlenose dolphin on June 30. The image of the prop cuts was too gruesome to share.

According to Marina Doshkov, marine mammal stranding coordinator for Jennette’s Pier, boaters can follow a handful of common-sense practices to avoid marine life.

Wear polarized sunglasses which help reduce glare and make these animals easier to see, she said. Vessel operators should designate a wildlife spotter to keep an eye out for marine life.

Keep your boat 50 yards away from them, Doshkov added. If you find yourself less than 50 yards away from them, remember these additional tips.

Use no-wake speed and put your engine in neutral, don't expect these marine animals to move out of your way, instead, move away from them slowly, she noted. And finally, make sure the animal is a safe distance away before engaging your propeller.

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