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Wednesday, January 7, 1998 Published at 14:17 GMT
World: Americas
Dolphins swim ashore to die
![image: [ It is believed parasites or disease are responsible for the deaths ]](/olmedia/images/_45309_dolphin300.jpg)
It is believed parasites or disease are responsible for the deaths
More than 140 dolphins are reported to have been found dead on a beach on an island off the coast of Venezuela.
Experts say it is one of the biggest mass beachings ever recorded.
Local experts said there was still no clear explanation, although it was possible that parasites or disease could have impaired their ability to navigate.
Environmental groups say it is unlikely pollution is responsible because no other sea creatures have been affected.
Naval lieutenant Carlos Tarazona said: "The strangest thing is they are already dead when they reach the shore.
"The bodies have no wounds other than some reddish marks on the abdomen."
The dolphins swam ashore on the island of La Tortuga, 160 km north east of the capital, Caracas.
![[ image: No other sea creatures have been affected]](/olmedia/images/_45309_dolphin2.jpg)
No other sea creatures have been affected
