A deceased dolphin was found washed up on Sandown Beach this morning (Saturday).
Coastguard teams were alerted to the discovery near to the Sun Dial Café at around 09:00 prompting the area to be cordoned off.
The common dolphin, believed to be a male, is understood to have died some time ago – around two weeks – however there was no evidence to suggest the dolphin was struck by a boat. It is suspected that the young dolphin succumbed to the recent weather, with high tides and strong winds.
The Isle of Wight Council were informed of the discovery and arranged for the collection of the deceased mammal.
Island Echo have decided not to run with a photograph of the dolphin in-situ due to it’s decomposing condition.
Anyone who finds a dolphin or other mammal washed up on the beach are advised by the Coastguard to remain a safe distance away to prevent the spread of disease and causing any alarm to the animal if it is still alive.
