Decapitated Porpoise Possibly Alive When Its Head Was Cut Off; Cetacean Killed Amid Various Environmental Threats
A decapitated porpoise was found on a beach in Wales. A bloody saw was also found in a trash bin opposite the beach.
Decapitated Porpoise Found on a Welsh Beach
Porpoises are protected by law, and it's a crime to move or kill the animal. However, the remains of a beheaded porpoise were found by a couple walking their dogs Sunday morning on Aberffraw Beach in Angeles.
Lowri Mair Jones saw the dead animal. Police reportedly told her that porpoise skulls sell for "big money on the internet." Jones, who lives in the Llangefni area, often walks her dogs there.
During the said outing, her partner saw a bloody saw in one of the bins opposite the beach before 9 a.m. So, the pair decided to call the police.
However, when they carried on the dunes towards the beach, they saw the decapitated porpoise. They were convinced that someone had done it on purpose.
When Lowri and her companion called the police once more, they were informed that the animal was most likely killed for financial gain.
According to Frankie Hobro, owner and director of the marine resource center Sw Môr Mô, it's possible that the porpoise was still alive when its head was severed, which is horrifying to think. It's also possible that it perished soon before becoming stranded on the beach.
Frankie said that someone who comes across an alive or recently deceased marine animal on a beach should contact the Marine Strandings Network to retrieve the carcass for scientific study or refloat the animal and release it back to the ocean.
Meanwhile, PC Amy Bennet from North Wales Police described it as a "distressing incident" and "an offense under the Habitats and Species Protection Regulations 2017." So, Bennett left a suggestion to anyone who could help their investigation about the decapitated marine creature.
"Anyone with information, or anyone who saw the incident, is asked to contact us," Bennet said.
What Are The Different Threats to Porpoise?
Porpoises are protected because of their declining population and the numerous threats around them.
The IUCN Red List currently lists seven species of porpoises, the majority of which are categorized as "endangered" or "critically endangered."
Here's a list of threats that porpoises face.
Bycatch
Unintentionally capturing non-target species while fishing is known as bycatch. Because of their size and habitat, porpoises are susceptible to injury and sometimes even death from becoming trapped in fishing nets and other gear.
Pollution
Pollution is another factor that puts porpoises in danger. One major issue is the presence of chemical contaminants and marine waste, mainly plastic. Because they contaminate their food supplies, these contaminants can cause direct or indirect harm to porpoises.
Climate Change
Environmental factors such as sea level, temperature, and food availability can alter porpoise migration patterns and habitats.
Habitat Loss
Natural habitats for porpoises can be destroyed by dredging, coastal development, and other human activity. Their natural behavior and survival are further disrupted by the noise pollution from offshore buildings and boat traffic, obstructing their communication and hunting ability.
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