Dolphin of the Month: Meet Jack-o'-Lantern

Researchers at the FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute first sighted Jack-o'-Lantern (Jack) in the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) in January 2021. Jack has been sighted three additional times since then.

The set of numbers on his dorsal fin is a freeze brand that was applied during permitted health assessment work by FAU and other agencies in 2011.

Reminder, if you see dolphins while on the water, you must stay 50 yards away.

The FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Stranding and Population Assessment team conducts monthly photo-identification surveys of cetaceans in the IRL and Atlantic Ocean. If you see a marine mammal in distress, call 888-404-3922.

Our Photo ID work is permitted under NOAA NMFS LOC #23069 and our stranding response is conducted under a Stranding Agreement with NMFS and FAU Harbor Branch under the authority of the Marine Mammal Protection Act.