A baby dolphin has just been spotted in the Tay - and its already melting hearts

The baby calf is estimated to be 75cm long. (Picture: SaltDog Marine)

A baby dolphin has been spotted swimming in the River Tay, bringing excitement to wildlife lovers and boat tour operators alike.

The sighting was captured by Ian Ashton of SaltDog Marine, who encountered the young calf during one of the company’s regular outings on the river. According to a post shared on SaltDog Marine’s Facebook page, the dolphin is believed to be only a few months old.

“Tiny little calf this morning on the Tay,” the post read. “Estimated at around 75cm max, it’s certainly the smallest I’ve seen. In my opinion, this one is just months old. Always a joy to see this expanding population thriving. Welcome to Dundee, little one.”

SaltDog Marine, which offers guided boat tours along the Tay, has seen a rise in popularity as more people seek out close encounters with the region’s diverse marine life. Their trips regularly feature sightings of bottlenose dolphins, grey seals, and an array of seabirds.

The appearance of such a young dolphin is a promising sign of a healthy and growing population in the area. Experts often highlight the Tay Estuary as an important habitat for dolphins, with conditions well-suited to breeding and nurturing young calves.

As word spreads, interest in SaltDog Marine’s tours is expected to grow even further. The company continues to run regular trips, offering the public a unique opportunity to witness the wonders of local wildlife up close.