Last week, the discovery of butchered remains of a common dolphin on a New Jersey beach sparked a federal investigation into this disturbing incident. The Marine Mammal Stranding Center reported that the dolphin’s remains were found on the shore in Allenhurst, near Asbury Park.
According to their observations, the animal appeared to have been intentionally butchered, with its flesh completely removed using precise cuts made by a sharp instrument. This gruesome finding left only the head, dorsal fin, and flukes intact, while most of the internal organs were also taken, except for the heart and lungs.
Witnesses had reported seeing a common dolphin struggling in the surf just a block away from where the remains were later discovered. Fortunately, this dolphin managed to swim over a sandbar and back out to sea, raising questions about whether the remains found on the beach were from the same animal. The Marine Mammal Stranding Center has not confirmed any connection between the two sightings, adding a layer of uncertainty to the investigation.
Federal Investigation Launched After Butchered Dolphin Remains Found on New Jersey BeachFollowing the recovery of the carcass, the staff at the Marine Mammal Stranding Center documented and photographed the remains before burying them on the beach. This meticulous process underscores the seriousness of the situation and the importance of gathering evidence in what is now a federal case.
The shocking nature of the incident has prompted the center to take swift action in handling the remains and addressing the public’s concerns.
The investigation is now in the hands of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Office of Law Enforcement, which has yet to provide any comments regarding the case.
They have encouraged anyone with information related to the incident to reach out via the NOAA Fisheries’ Enforcement Hotline. This case highlights the ongoing issue of marine animal protection and the need for vigilance against acts of cruelty towards wildlife.