Dolphins Are Washing Up Dead at a Disturbing Rate This Year— And Scientists Aren’t Sure Why

Nearly 300 dead bottlenose dolphins — three times as many as normal — have washed up along the beaches of the Gulf Coast this year. While scientists can't explain the sudden surge, some at least have theories.

Since February, 282 bottlenose dolphins have been found across four states in varying degrees of death and decay, according to Erin Fougeres, a Marine Mammal Scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Nearly 300 dead bottlenose dolphins — three times as many as normal — have washed up along the beaches of the Gulf Coast this year. While scientists can't explain the sudden surge, some at least have theories. Since February, 282 bottlenose dolphins have been found across four states in varying degrees of death and decay, according to Erin Fougeres, a Marine Mammal Scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).