Concern as Dead Dolphins and Sea Turtles Found on Gambia’s Southern Coastline

The Centre for Environment, Climate Action and Research has reported the discovery of six dead dolphins and three sea turtles along the southern coastline of The Gambia, between Gunjur and Kartong village.

Centre for Environment, Climate Action and Research Monitoring team with a dead dolphin | Photo credit: Centre for Environment, Climate Action and Research

According to the monitoring team, the animals were found washed up on the beach without any visible signs of what may have caused their deaths. Investigations are yet to determine whether pollution, fishing activities, disease, or other environmental factors are involved.

This development has sparked concern among environmentalists and coastal residents. “The unexplained deaths of these marine species raise serious questions about the state of our coastal ecosystem,” the Centre noted in its statement.

The incident comes just months after dozens of critically endangered hooded vultures were reported dead in Gunjur and across parts of the country under similarly mysterious circumstances. Conservation groups warn that the recurrence of such unexplained wildlife deaths may point to deeper ecological threats that demand urgent attention.

The Centre has called for thorough investigations, while urging authorities and coastal communities to remain vigilant.