After the death of dolphins at Gulf World Marine Park, Florida State Senator Jay Trumbull is demanding that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) intervene. Trumbull took to social media to raise awareness and called for FWC to take action:
“Another dolphin has died at Gulf World,” Trumbull wrote. “This marks the second in just over a month—and it’s part of a disturbing and unacceptable pattern. These are not isolated incidents—they are signs of failure, and they demand immediate action.
From the moment we were first made aware of the situation, we demanded action. We engaged with all relevant state agencies immediately to intercede in any way possible and have continued to press for swift intervention ever since.
Our office has been in ongoing communication with federal and state partners, including the USDA and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). While we recognize the jurisdictional complexities, the time for caution and coordination has passed. These animals cannot wait any longer.
FWC has a responsibility to act decisively. I am calling on them to go in immediately, remove the remaining animals, and ensure they are relocated to a safe and appropriate environment. That is the only acceptable outcome.
This is no longer about protocols or paperwork—it’s about doing what is right. These animals are suffering. The public is watching. And the time to act is now.”
Gulf World Marine Park, established in 1970, is a dolphinarium that houses various marine animals, including bottlenose and rough-toothed dolphins. In January 2025, a routine USDA inspection reported several repeat violations of the Animal Welfare Act. These included deteriorating enclosures, inadequate shade for dolphins, and lapses in water quality testing. Additionally, in March 2025, the park’s parent company, The Dolphin Company, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing financial challenges.
In response to Trumbull’s post, FWC replied with their own Facebook post that included a link to an article about the incident, and FWC stated:
“This remains an active ongoing criminal investigation in conjunction with local, state, and federal officials, including the State Attorney’s Office. FWC recognizes and shares the rightful concerns of the community and will provide updates as soon as they become available.”
Author
