Pregnant Dolphin Killed, 21st in Brutal Spree: Report

A pregnant dolphin was fatally shot this April, becoming the 21st dolphin to die from a gunshot wound between Florida and Texas since 2002, according to a Wednesday report from The New York Times. Two other dolphins have been killed by arrows during that time period, the Times reports, and one was impaled with a screwdriver. Scientists told the Times that dolphin slayings have become more common in recent years, and placed responsibility on the well-meaning humans that feed them. “It’s really like any wild animal, like bears in Yellowstone,” one scientist said. “When dolphins are fed, it changes their behavior.” She explained that feeding dolphins has made them more comfortable approaching fishing boats and prying food from fishing gear, which can cause fishermen to retaliate by shooting them. “The public thinks it’s just an innocent behavior,” she added. “They can’t see that domino effect of that simple act.” The exact circumstances surrounding the death of the pregnant dolphin remain unknown. Animal welfare agencies have offered a collective $11,500 reward for information about the animal’s death.