Online reports show Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation (FWC) and multiple federal, state and local police agents are investigating at Gulf World Marine Park in Panama City.
After controversy around multiple dolphin deaths, FWC said the investigation is due to the growing concern about animal welfare.
Florida’s Attorney General issued a search warrant to be executed.
“The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission takes the health and welfare of all wildlife, including Florida’s marine mammals, very seriously. Due to growing concerns about the sanitation and condition of aquatic enclosures, as well as the well-being of captive bottlenose dolphins at Gulf World Marine Park, FWC has joined (local and state) partner agencies to conduct a thorough investigation of the facility. The Commission will continue to engage with our partner agencies in this investigation and will provide all necessary resources to resolve this matter.
The safety and humane treatment of these animals are of the utmost importance, and we remain committed to ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to protect them. At this time, we have no further information to share, but we will provide updates as they become available,” said Christopher Boley with FWC.
