Dolphin killed by multiple stabbings

MELBOURNE - A dolphin has been slaughtered in a stabbing attack in Australia.

The carcass of the adult female dolphin with as many as seven stab wounds was retrieved on Monday from Corio Bay, near Geelong's Eastern Beach in Victoria.

It was recovered by Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) staff and veterinarians following reports from distressed members of the public.

DSE spokesman Ron Waters said the department was outraged by the violent act.

"This is a horrendous act of cruelty to one of Australia's most-loved and iconic animals," he said in a statement.

"It is totally unacceptable and DSE will use information provided by the public to undertake vigorous investigations to find who is responsible".

Dr Verne Dove from the Corio Veterinary Clinic conducted a post-mortem examination and found the dolphin had been stabbed up to seven times, possibly with two different knives.

He said one wound punctured the heart and the dolphin probably died instantly from this wound.

Mr Waters said the death was a significant biodiversity loss for the breeding potential of the unique Port Phillip Bay population as the female had just reached sexual maturity.

Dolphins are protected under the Wildlife Act.

Any person found guilty of killing a dolphin can be fined in excess of A$100,000 ($111,000). If cruelty is involved, this offence may also attract up to 12 months' imprisonment.

- AAP