Authorities in Florida have started a rigorous investigation into the Gulf World Marine Park after distressing reports emerged regarding animal welfare violations. The probe was sparked by allegations of "animal abuse" coinciding with the deaths of four dolphins over the past year, as reported by local media outlets.
Recent drone footage shared by animal rights activists highlighted concerning footage of dolphins swimming in murky tanks, raising alarm over the facility's conditions. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier stated his firm stance against animal cruelty and called for accountability regarding these troubling claims.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) executed a search warrant at the park, following Uthmeier's request. This action followed reports indicating that employees at Gulf World allegedly obstructed FWC rangers from conducting inspections of the animals.
Tragically, three dolphins were reported to have died in October, with a fourth death occurring recently, attributed to an injury sustained while performing for an audience. Gulf World Marine Park's website notes that it hosts various marine species, including bottlenose dolphins, sea lions, and penguins, among others.
UrgentSeas, an animal welfare organization, has been vocal about the deplorable conditions at the park. Phil Demers, the director of UrgentSeas, emphasized that the organization has been documenting and publicizing the park's troubling state, advocating for the immediate rescue of the marine animals in distress. Demers expressed concern that, without intervention, the animals may suffer further due to the deteriorating environment at the facility.
