A dolphin (illustration).

-

CATERS / SIPA

The number is cold in the back.

Eighty-six dolphins were found dead on Tuesday on an island off the coast of Mozambique.

The cause of their death is still unknown, the country's environment ministry said.

Several dolphins had already been discovered dead on Sunday at the same place.

In total, 111 marine mammals have been found by the team from the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, which is located in the Mozambique Channel, between the coast of this country and Madagascar.

No trace of injury

An investigation is underway to determine the origin of the death of marine animals.

The team of researchers sent to the field did not find any trace of injury on the dolphins, nor any suspicious substance in their digestive system, the authorities said.

The Bazaruto Archipelago National Park is Mozambique's first marine park.

Its protected waters are home to many marine mammals such as dolphins, whales and dugongs.

It is also home to 180 species of birds, 45 reptiles, 16 types of land mammals, as well as 500 marine and coastal species, and 2,000 fish.

Planet

A Cuvier's beaked whale discovered washed up on a beach on the Ile de Ré

Planet

To avoid the capture of dolphins, associations are calling for a one-month winter moratorium on sea fishing

  • Animals

  • Mozambique

  • Madagascar

  • Dolphin

  • Planet