NWL: Mysterious substance in dolphin's intestine led to its death off the coast of Great Britain

A dolphin weighing more than 500 kilograms and measuring 3.3 meters in length was found dead on the coast of Anglesey Island in Great Britain. Its body was accidentally discovered by a local resident walking dogs on the beach. This was reported by the North Wales Live portal.

As confirmed by specialists, the deceased marine mammal belonged to the bottlenose dolphin species that inhabit Cardigan Bay. Scientists knew this animal by the names Gandalf and Dewin. Representatives of the Sea Watch Foundation, who accompanied the examination, noted that the dolphin was one of the largest and most recognizable members of its population.

The Marine Environment Monitoring Centre (MEM) conducted the carcass investigation. According to biologists, the dolphin was of advanced age - traces of old injuries were recorded on its body, and its teeth were significantly worn. Despite its age, Gandalf's overall body condition was assessed as good: it was eating properly and showed no signs of emaciation.

However, an autopsy conducted at the University of Liverpool revealed a strange cause of death. The animal's intestine was blocked by a dense mass that visually resembled grayish-brown clay. Experts still cannot precisely determine the nature of this substance and are awaiting the results of additional laboratory analyses.

Bottlenose dolphins are among the most intellectually developed marine creatures, possessing complex social organization and high learning ability. They can often be seen in aquarium shows. The death of one of the most well-known representatives of the wild population causes serious concern among ecologists and zoologists, especially in light of the mysterious finding that led to the tragedy.