CLEARWATER, Fla. (WFLA) — Four rough-toothed dolphins now have a new home at Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
The dolphins were relocated to Clearwater from Gulf World on Wednesday.
The Panama City Beach aquarium is currently involved in a criminal investigation, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Late last month, State Sen. Jay Trumbull confirmed the fifth dolphin death at Gulf World since October, WMBB reported.
Gulf World could face charges that include wildlife trafficking, animal cruelty, and violations of state regulations regarding marine life, according to WMBB.
However, the news station reported that it’s unclear at this point what is being alleged or what charges could be made under federal law.
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium said the four dolphins, Doris, Kitana, Dagny and Wren, are estimated to be 28, 18, 10, and 5 years of age. They will be observed and evaluated as they adjust to their new environment.
“We welcome these dolphins into our care with a team experienced with the species,” said Kelly Martin, Vice President of Zoological Care, at CMA.
Once the dolphins are acclimated, CMA said it will announce the next steps, including introducing the new dolphins to two rough-toothed dolphins and two bottlenose dolphins.
CMA is the only aquarium in the United States that cares for rough-toothed dolphins.
The four rough-toothed dolphins have been deemed non-releasable by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
The addition of the dolphins will bring CMA’s total cetacean population to nine dolphins, which guests can visit at the Ruth & J.O. Stone Dolphin Complex.
This article by Katlyn Fernandez was first published by WFLA on 6 June 2025.
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