Dead Florida dolphin was infected with highly pathogenic bird flu [Video]

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A Florida bottlenose dolphin died from the “highly pathogenic” bird flu that has been sweeping the country, according to a new study.

Researchers at the University of Florida made the discovery following a necropsy on a dolphin that was found “in distress” in a Dixie County canal in March 2022. Despite rescue efforts, the dolphin died shortly after it was found.

Scientists did not suspect bird flu as the cause of death, however, a necropsy revealed the dolphin had contracted a highly deadly strain of the virus. The dolphin was found with brain inflammation and leptomeninges disease.

Upon further research, UF scientists found symptoms similar to those in other Florida wildlife that had been infected with the bird flu. Additional testing ruled out other potential agents at play in the dolphin’s disease and confirmed the presence of …