![Click to enlarge A lifeless dolphin floats in the water.](/image/s35/703851/super/dead_dolphin.jpg)
"A total of 137 cetaceans died in the last month. This is a serious figure," Delfa wrote on the messaging app Telegram, referring to the group of aquatic mammals that includes whales, dolphins and porpoises.
"In the last week alone, we recorded 101 dolphin deaths. On March 31, we were informed about 26 deaths," the rescue center added.
Many of the animals showed signs of having been caught in fishing nets, including deep scratches, missing fins or tails, as well as torn stomachs. Some were entangled in ropes tied around rocks, which Delfa suggested may have been caused by fishermen trying to get rid of their bycatch.
Comment: Fox News reports: