Three bottlenose dolphins were released into the ocean over the weekend after undergoing rehabilitation for three years. The three ocean mammals were rescued after being held in captivity and forced to perform by a traveling circus.
Local news outlets reported that the three dolphins – Johnny, Rocky, and Rambo – were released to Banyuwedang Bay in Buleleng on Saturday. Johnny, the eldest of the three dolphins, was given dental crowns so he could feed himself in the ocean.
Johnny reportedly suffered in captivity at a hotel in Bali, along with Rocky and Rambo, in a pool that was heavily chlorinated, contributing to his injuries and dental problems.
Environment and Forestry Minister Siti Nurbaya said on her Instagram that the dolphins are expected to find their new pod and adapt in the ocean after undergoing intricate rehab procedures.
The dolphins were part of a rehabilitation project by the The Umah Lumba Center, which is a collaboration between the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Natural Resources Conservation Center (BKSDA) Bali, the Dolphin Project, Jakarta Animal Aid Network, Karimunjawa National Park and the West Bali National Park (TNBB).
The three dolphins were equipped with GPS devices that will enable their satellite tracking for a year after their release. The devices are set to automatically detach from the dolphins after a year.
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