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The Dingle boatmen say they have resigned themselves to the “high probability” that Fungie will never return to the western city of Kerry.
The beloved bottlenose dolphin has been missing for seven days.
Boats and divers have been conducting an extensive search of Dingle Harbor for the past week, but there have been no signs of the famous dolphin.
Fungie, a four-meter wild dolphin, has been an ever-present feature at the mouth of Dingle Harbor since it was first seen by lighthouse keeper Paddy Ferriter in 1983.
Marine biologist Kevin Flannery said that Fungie may have joined other dolphins or headed out to sea to feed, but given Fungie’s age, he also fears the dolphin has died.
“We think he was about nine years old when he first came here in 1983, so he’s 45 years old. Experts tell us that the typical lifespan of a dolphin is around 45 to 50,” he said.
“He is a wild animal that lives in the wild. Trying to fish at that age is a challenge for him. There is a possibility that he has contracted an infection and died.” added.
Fungie’s disappearance is a significant blow to the western city of Kerry, which has built a tourist industry around the playful dolphin.
The children are devastated by the loss of the dolphin Fungie.
This little guy lives in Antrim. His mother sent this message to the Kerry County Council, who sent it to me. James, 6, wanted to send his photo to Dingle “to help bring Fungie home.” Distressing. pic.twitter.com/yZbC0idnty
– Seán Mac an tSíthigh (@Buailtin) October 20, 2020
Up to 12 ships operate daily trips, employing more than 50 people. The trips also generate substantial traffic for restaurants, pubs, gift shops, hotels, and guesthouses.
Local woman Tricia Kennedy says the local community has a special connection to Fungie and that the dolphin is a very important part of the city’s identity.
“Fungie put Dingle on the map and Dingle is known around the world for Fungie. The people of this small town understand and appreciate all that he has done for our community.”
“He’s been with us for so long, 37 years. There are so many people in this town who have grown up with Fungie and don’t know a life without him. The children, in particular, are devastated,” he said.
Juli Ní Mhaoileoin’s house overlooks the harbor and she has fond memories of swimming with the dolphin when she first arrived.
“I was in my late teens and it was normal for us to go out, jump out of boats and play with him. The dolphins are euphoric, they just exude joy and joy. There were days when he could choose you to play with you and there were days when he it happened to other people. His energy, his speed and his grace were so special. ” she said.
“The magic was that it came mysteriously, we didn’t know where it came from and it was very generous to the people of Dingle and to everyone who came to see it.” she added.
“It’s so sad. Because he’s always been there for so many and so generous and so playful. There is so much beauty associated with Fungie and for that to be gone, it’s like a light went out.”
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