In a startling discovery that has baffled marine experts, a striped dolphin was recently found lifeless on a New Hampshire beach. This marks the first time this species has been encountered by the New England-based marine mammal rescue group since it started its operations in 2014. The young female dolphin was found washed ashore on Hampton Beach, and upon examination, it was revealed that the dolphin suffered from a myriad of health issues, including granulomatous pneumonia, heavy parasite burden, decreased nutritional body condition, septicemia in the liver, and inflammation of the abdominal cavity.
This occurrence raises serious concerns as sightings of stranded striped dolphins are uncommon, especially in New Hampshire. Their occasional visits to New Hampshire coasts during warmer months are a known phenomenon, but the reasons behind this particular dolphin’s stranding remain unclear. This ambiguity is alarming, particularly in the context of global climate change and its impact on marine life. According to the National Environmental Education Foundation, over 80% of the Earth’s marine life is changing their migratory, breeding, and feeding patterns due to the consistent rise in ocean temperatures, largely a result of increased greenhouse gases from burning fossil fuels.
Rare Striped Dolphin Found Dead in New Hampshire Sparks Concern
In a surprising and disconcerting discovery, a striped dolphin was recently found dead on a New Hampshire beach. The New England-based marine mammal rescue group that responded to the situation, the Seacoast Science Center, reported that this was the first encounter with this species since they started operations in 2014. The young female striped dolphin had washed ashore on Hampton Beach on July 14, according to USA Today.
The Investigation
Upon discovery, the Seacoast Science Center was alerted and quickly arrived on the scene. The organization collected swabs from the dolphin to test for any diseases. They then transported the body to the New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory
