The Gulf World Marine Park in Panama City Beach, Florida, is facing a legal investigation due to alarming animal welfare claims, particularly concerning the deaths of four dolphins within a year. Activists have raised concerns over the park’s conditions, prompting action from state officials.
Florida Marine Park Under Investigation for Dolphin Welfare Issues
Florida Marine Park Under Investigation for Dolphin Welfare Issues
Law enforcement raids Gulf World Marine Park amid animal abuse allegations following multiple dolphin deaths.
US law enforcement and wildlife authorities have launched a significant investigation into the Gulf World Marine Park, located in Panama City Beach, Florida, amid growing allegations of animal abuse. The inquiry follows reports of the deaths of four dolphins in the past year, raising serious concerns among animal rights activists.
Local news outlets reported that three of the dolphins died in October alone, leading to scrutiny of the park's environment, which has been described as deteriorating. Alarmingly, drone footage released by animal rights groups shows dolphins swimming in green, murky water—a sign of poor living conditions.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, who is overseeing the investigation, declared zero tolerance for any form of animal abuse. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement, along with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), executed a search warrant at Uthmeier's request after reports surfaced that park management obstructed attempts by FWC rangers to inspect the animals.
The Dolphin Company, which owns the marine park, has not yet responded to requests for comments regarding these allegations. According to their official website, the park is home to various species including bottlenose dolphins, sea lions, and seals, but recent events have sparked widespread public criticism.
Phil Demers, director of the animal welfare organization UrgentSeas, has been documenting the troubling conditions at Gulf World and expressed deep concern over the animals' welfare. "We’ve been publishing videos of Gulf World's distressing conditions and will continue until those animals are urgently rescued," he stated, urging for immediate intervention to prevent further decline in their living conditions.
As the investigation unfolds, it remains critical to monitor the situation closely, with hopes that any necessary actions will be taken promptly to safeguard the welfare of the animals in the park.
