Three Dolphins Found Dead in Florida Died from Bird Flu, Testing Finds

Autopsy Results Reveal Cause of Death

Three bottlenose dolphins found dead in Florida more than a year ago died from bird flu, officials said.

Extensive Testing Reveals the Cause

Extensive testing showed the dolphins, which were found dead in the Indian River Lagoon in Brevard County toward the end of 2023, died from bird flu that most likely attacked their brains.

Neurological Symptoms Possibly Caused Drowning

Researchers from the Hubbs-Seaworld Research Institute said the virus could have caused neurological symptoms that possibly created confusion or even caused them to drown in shallow water.

How Dolphins May Have Acquired the Virus

“And so we know that dolphins in the lagoon will commonly feed on large schools of fish communally with large groups of birds so it’s possible that that might be how they could acquire the virus. The birds will actually shed the virus through saliva, mucus or feces, so the dolphins would have to come into contact with one of those,” said Wendy Noke Durden, a research scientist at Hubbs-Seaworld Research Institute.

No Other Cases of Bird Flu in Dolphins in Florida

Researchers don’t know of any other cases of bird flu impacting dolphins in Florida.

Conclusion

The death of the three dolphins serves as a reminder of the complex relationships between different species in an ecosystem and the potential risks that come with them. Further research is needed to understand the impact of bird flu on marine life and to develop strategies for mitigating its effects.

FAQs

Q: What was the cause of death of the three dolphins?

A: The cause of death was determined to be bird flu, which most likely attacked their brains.

Q: How did the dolphins acquire the virus?

A: The dolphins likely acquired the virus by coming into contact with infected birds, possibly through saliva, mucus, or feces.

Q: Is this the first case of bird flu impacting dolphins in Florida?

A: Yes, according to researchers, this is the first known case of bird flu impacting dolphins in Florida.