The female dolphin washed ashore on Quintana Beach on Sunday, and beachgoers attempted to “swim with and ride the ill animal,” according to reports.
A dolphin stranded on a Texas beach died when a throng “harassed” it and attempted to ride it, according to rescue personnel.
The female dolphin washed ashore on Quintana Beach on Sunday evening and was reportedly driven back out to sea by beachgoers who attempted to “swim with and ride the ill animal,” according to a Facebook post by the Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network.
“She eventually became stuck and was tormented by a swarm of people on the beach, where she perished before rescuers arrived,” according to the charity.
Harassing stranded sea animals not only creates stress and danger to those who engage with them, but it is also unlawful, according to rescue officials.
Violations of the Marine Mammal Protection Act can result in fines of up to $11,000 and a year in jail.
“Please DO NOT PUSH a live dolphin or whale back to sea if it lands in Texas,” the Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network said. “Do not attempt to swim or contact with them, and do not crowd them.”
Finally, a beachgoer requested aid from Quintana Beach County Park. The occurrence was described as a “tragedy” by the park.