Russia’s war continues to kill dolphins: Five more dead dolphins wash up in Odesa Oblast – 63 since late May
Since late May, 63 dead harbor porpoises have been documented along Ukraine’s Black Sea coast. Scientists warn the true toll could be in the thousands.
Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine continues to devastate the Black Sea ecosystem. Five more dead dolphins have been found in a park in Odesa Oblast, bringing the total number of deceased marine mammals recorded since late May to 63.
Scientists monitoring the situation emphasize that the 63 documented harbor porpoises are only a fraction of the actual damage. Researchers estimate the true death toll could reach several thousand, as many carcasses sink or are carried away from shore.
The marine mammal deaths are directly linked to Russian military activities, including underwater noise, mine detonations, and potential pollution. These factors disrupt dolphin navigation and feeding habits, leading to mass mortality events.
This is not the first such occurrence since the war began – previous months have seen regular reports of dead dolphins along Ukrainian coasts. The situation raises concerns for the long-term conservation of biodiversity in the Black Sea.
