The Department of Conservation is appealing for information from the public after a decapitated dolphin was found on a beach north of Kaikōura.
DOC Kaikōura marine reserves ranger Zac Penman said it is illegal to injure, kill, or take parts of a marine mammal. He said the “grisly act” was “completely unacceptable”.
“The dolphin was found by a member of the public and reported to DOC on 24 August,” Penman said.
The dusky dolphin was thought to have washed up naturally before someone took its head, he added.
The Marine Mammals Protection Act states it is illegal to take any part of a marine mammal, the department said.
Penman said it is an offence to be in possession of any part of a marine mammal without a permit.
“The exception to this is if part of a marine mammal (such as a jawbone) has separated naturally from its body. If that occurs, the finder must notify DOC of the time, place and circumstances under which the find was made.
“Kaikōura is renowned for its marine life which gets visitors naturing through amazing wildlife watching opportunities. Countless dolphins, seals, whales and other marine animals count on us to do our part and follow the rules.”
In July, 1News reported members of the public discovered decapitated seals at a beach in Auckland.
Anyone with information on the decapitated dolphin is asked to call 0800 362 468, or email [email protected], with the reference number CLE-9721.
DOC said any information received would be kept “strictly confidential”.
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