TAMPA, Fla. – The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries Services is offering a $20,000 reward for information following the tragic discovery of a deceased dolphin on a beach in Louisiana. The dolphin, a juvenile bottlenose, was found on March 13 at West Mae’s Beach in Cameron Parish, with multiple bullets lodged in its brain, spinal cord, and heart.
An investigation by NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement revealed that the dolphin had sustained severe trauma at or near the time of its death. The agency is now actively looking into the circumstances surrounding the incident, and is seeking any information that could lead to the arrest or assessment of a civil penalty.
It is worth noting that harassing, hunting, killing, or feeding wild dolphins, or attempting to engage in any of these activities, is strictly prohibited. Those found to be in violation of these regulations could face significant penalties, including fines of up to $100,000 and up to one year in jail per violation.
In light of this disturbing incident, the NOAA is calling on the public to come forward with any information that may help in solving this case. Anyone with relevant details is urged to contact the NOAA Enforcement Hotline at 800-853-1964 to assist in the ongoing investigation.
The rewards of $20,000 offered by the NOAA reinforces the seriousness with which such incidents are taken, emphasizing the importance of protecting marine wildlife and ensuring that those responsible for harming these animals are brought to justice.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the critical importance of conservation efforts and the need for greater awareness and vigilance in safeguarding our marine ecosystems. The senseless killing of a defenseless dolphin underscores the urgent need to address threats to marine life and reinforce the protection of these vulnerable species.