Rare dolphin dies after beachgoers use it as a selfie prop
LA PLATA, Argentina - One of a pair of extremely rare La Plata dolphins died after beachgoers in South America brought the mammal ashore to pet and take selfies with it.
Video and images from the event emerged on social media Thursday, causing outrage among many due to the treatment of the animal.
The dolphin would eventually die from dehydration as locals and tourists passed it around while snapping pictures of it.
The population of La Plata dolphins is on a steep decline with exact numbers of living specimens still alive unclear. They are one of the smallest dolphins in the ocean, and usually live to be around 20 years old while sporting the high level of intelligence that is a common trait among the species.
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The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recommends people stay away from animals they encounter while swimming or at the beach. Feeding, touching or otherwise attracting wildlife can be dangerous not only for the animal, but for humans as well.
Warning: Some viewers may find the video below disturbing.
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