FWC biologists find plastic bags, balloon in beached dolphin's stomach

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FWC biologists found two plastic bags and a piece of a balloon in the stomach of a dolphin that beached in Florida this week.

The female rough-toothed dolphin stranded Tuesday on Fort Myers Beach.

Biologists said the finding is significant although there are many other factors to consider including underlying illness, disease and maternal separation before a final cause of stranding and death for the dolphin can be determined.

The FWC says the plastic bags and balloon highlight the need to reduce single-use plastic -- and stop balloon releases into the environment.

If you see a stranded marine animal, call the FWC’s Wildlife Alert at 888-404-3922.

Biologists ask you don't push the animal back into the water as it can delay examination and treatment and often results in the animal restranding in worse condition.

Cox Media Group