TAMPA, Fla. – Authorities are seeking information about the tragic death of a dolphin found on a Louisiana beach last month. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries Services is offering a reward of $20,000 in connection with the incident.
The juvenile bottlenose dolphin was discovered on March 13 at West Mae’s Beach in Cameron Parish, Louisiana, with multiple bullets lodged in its brain, spinal cord, and heart. A necropsy indicated that the dolphin sustained trauma that led to its death at that time.
NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement is conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the dolphin’s demise. The agency is providing a substantial reward for any details that could result in an arrest or the imposition of a civil penalty.
The NOAA strictly prohibits harassing, hunting, killing, or feeding wild dolphins, along with any attempts to engage in such activities. Violators can face civil or criminal charges, including fines of up to $100,000 and imprisonment for up to one year for each violation.
Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the NOAA Enforcement Hotline at 800-853-1964. The tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting marine life and enforcing wildlife conservation laws. Let us all work together to ensure the well-being and preservation of dolphins and other marine creatures.