What is the name of the dolphin that has been spotted in Venice?

Mimmo, a bottlenose dolphin, has been spotted in the waters of Venice's St. Mark's basin.

Why are animal activists concerned about Mimmo the dolphin?

Animal activists are concerned that Mimmo's life is at risk due to the growing interest and interference from tourists, including people throwing balls at the dolphin or chasing it in boats, as well as the danger posed by boat propellers in the busy lagoon.

How are experts trying to help Mimmo the dolphin?

Experts from the University of Padova's emergency response team, CERT, and the coastguard have been closely monitoring Mimmo's movements and are working to assist in guiding the dolphin back to the open sea, where it would be safer.

Home / Environment / Beloved Bottlenose Dolphin Mimmo Faces Peril from Selfie-Seeking Tourists

Beloved Bottlenose Dolphin Mimmo Faces Peril from Selfie-Seeking Tourists

10 Nov

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Summary

Mimmo, a bottlenose dolphin, has been entertaining tourists in Venice's St. Mark's basin
Animal activists fear Mimmo's life is at risk from boat propellers and tourist interference
Experts are monitoring Mimmo and trying to guide the dolphin back to the open sea

Beloved Bottlenose Dolphin Mimmo Faces Peril from Selfie-Seeking Tourists

As of 2025-11-10T13:45:17+00:00, a bottlenose dolphin known as Mimmo has been making regular appearances in the waters of Venice's St. Mark's basin, entertaining both tourists and residents with its acrobatic displays. However, this newfound fame has raised concerns among animal and environmental activists, who fear that the dolphin's life may be in danger due to the growing interest and interference from visitors.

Mimmo was first spotted by a water-taxi driver named Manuel Tiffi back in June 2025. Tiffi reported that the dolphin often swam "right in front of the bow" of his boat, and he and other taxi drivers have been trying to warn people to be cautious around the animal. Sadly, not everyone has heeded these warnings, with some individuals allegedly throwing balls at Mimmo or chasing the dolphin in their own boats. Additionally, there have been reports of organized "selfie tours" targeting the dolphin.