A rare bottlenose dolphin missing its tail has been seen in Charleston waters, and a local marine agency is urging the community to give it space.
About Koa
The dolphin, named Koa, meaning “Little Warrior” in Hawaiian, has been monitored by the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network (LMMN) since March 2025. The cause of its missing tail and part of its tail stock is unknown, though the injury is fully healed.
Survival Challenges
Lauren Rust, executive director of LMMN, said the dolphin’s survival is remarkable, as the tail is essential for diving, feeding, and avoiding boats. Koa has been spotted in busy recreational waterways, and human activity could stress the animal, wasting valuable energy.
Community Guidance
The LMMN asked people not to feed, approach, or harass Koa. Boaters should give it plenty of space to improve its chances of survival. Under the Marine Mammals Protection Act, harassment of marine animals is prohibited.
Dolphin Population and Species
About 300 dolphins live in Charleston waters. Scientists have determined that East Coast dolphins may be a distinct species from their offshore cousins, the common bottlenose dolphin (tursiops truncatus).
Koa’s Uniqueness
Koa is estimated to be 3–5 years old, and it is unknown whether it is male or female. There have only been five other similar cases reported in the wild worldwide, highlighting the dolphin’s resilience and uniqueness.
