GEORGE TOWN: The carcass of an Irrawaddy dolphin, was found washed ashore on Friday (April 11) night on Teluk Bahang beach.
It was partially decomposed and may have spent some time floating at sea, judging from the condition of its badly sunburned skin.
The dolphin's tail was entirely severed off, and another deep cut at its belly resulted in some of its intestines trailing out.
Such injuries are commonly observed when dolphins get into accidents with passing boats and are struck by the propellers.
The Fisheries Department deployed a team from its Conservation and Fisheries Protection Division to inspect the carcass.
Several pods of Irrawaddy dolphins, the most common sea mammals living around Penang waters, have inhabited the waters for generations.
Those who find sea mammals washed ashore can contact the Penang Fisheries Department (04-657 2777) or the national 24/7 hotline, FishCom (03-8870 4058).
