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Endangered Dolphin Found Dead on Odisha Beach
6 Jul
Summary
- An endangered Irrawaddy dolphin carcass was found on Pentha beach.
- The dolphin measured 6 feet 2 inches and died days prior.
- Nets from fishing and trawlers are a leading cause of dolphin deaths.
An endangered Irrawaddy dolphin, measuring approximately 6 feet 2 inches, was found deceased on Pentha beach within the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary. Forest officials were alerted by locals and recovered the carcass for examination, as the exact cause of death remains undetermined. It is believed the dolphin died several days before its remains were discovered.
This species holds significant conservation status, being listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Environmentalists highlight that accidental entanglement in fishing and trawler nets is a primary reason for dolphin mortality along the Odisha coast. Dolphins are known to approach fishing vessels in search of food, increasing their vulnerability to such accidents.
