There's a $20,000 reward posted for information on what happened to a bottlenose dolphin found decapitated on Lea-Hutaff Island, just north of Wilmington, North Carolina, NOAA Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement said.
Someone reported the stranding of a dead dolphin on April 15 to the Southeast Marine Stranding Hotline, according to a release. Investigators said someone then “intentionally mutilated” and decapitated the 8-foot dolphin between April 16 and April 18.
The intentional decapitation of the animal, officials said, is a violation of the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which prohibits the harassment, harming, killing or feeding of wild dolphins.
Authorities said the investigation into the incident and cause of death is difficult due to the remote location where the dolphin’s carcass was found.
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington have said the dolphin, which was found on an undeveloped barrier island accessible only by boat, is believed to be carrying Brucella.
Brucella, which is the bacteria that causes brucellosis, can be transferred to humans through direct contact.
Complete results from the university’s health assessment and cause of death are pending.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the NOAA Enforcement Hotline at 800-853-1964. Officials said tips can be made anonymously, but your name and contact information must be provided to receive the reward.
Anyone who finds a stranded or injured marine animal can also report it to the Southeast Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline at 877-WHALE-HELP or 877-942-5243.
