Ceuta dolphin calf death under investigation following suspected attack

A bottlenose dolphin calf was found dead on Wednesday at Trampolín Beach in Ceuta under circumstances that local activists describe as a suspected attack. The Association for the Defence of Urban Trees, Biodiversity and the Environment (DAUBMA) has filed a formal complaint with the Guardia Civil, requesting an investigation into the incident.

According to DAUBMA, the disoriented animal reached the shore alive, potentially due to heavy fog. The organization alleges that several individuals dragged the calf out of the water and struck it on the head with a stick. Evidence provided to authorities includes photographs and videos showing blood beneath the animal’s eye, as well as footage of individuals attempting to wipe the blood away.

The incident occurred near a beach area where migrants from recent mass crossings have been camping. A witness from the cleaning company Ecoservicios reportedly advised those present to stop interfering and contact environmental services. Although attempts were made to return the animal to the sea following this warning, the dolphin showed no signs of life. No suspects have been identified at this time.