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The search for the beloved dolphin Fungie has resumed in Co Kerry, where the famous marine mammal has been missing for five days.
There is growing concern for the well-being of Fungie, which has been an ever-present feature at the mouth of Dingle Harbor since 1983.
Yesterday, up to six boats continued to search for the wild dolphin, extending the area to cover a 12 km stretch of sea along the west coast of Kerry.
The boatmen told RTÉ that it is extremely unusual for Fungie to have left the mouth of the harbor for so long.
They said the most they have had to search for it in the past is five to six hours. The dolphin has been missing since Tuesday.
There was a possible sighting of him on a fishing boat early Thursday morning, but no further sightings have been reported.
Fungie, a wild bottlenose dolphin, first came to Dingle in 1983. His friendly nature and enthusiasm for interacting with humans helped establish Dingle as a major tourist destination, with people coming from all over to see the animated dolphin.
Concern is growing in the city of Dingle, where many locals rely on by-product tourism generated by the dolphin.
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.
The Dingle boatmen will keep looking for Funghie all day.
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