A sexually aroused dolphin has been getting so close to human swimmers at a picturesque French beach in the northwestern Brittany region that the local mayor has closed the beach at the village of Landévennec in Finistère to bathing.
Brittany is a region of France known for its beautiful beaches with beaucoup swimming and sailing opportunities.
The local mayor, Roger Lars, issued a new law prohibiting swimmers from getting closer to 40 meters (close to 130 feet) to the dolphin, whose name is Zafar.
The dolphin has a name, you might ask with eyebrows raised? Mais qui.
Turns out the male mammal is a local celebrity and was once known for its gentle behavior. But now, apparently, he’s horny and searching for a mate, and has acted in what humans think is aggression.
The director of a local ocean discovery park told the media Zafar’s behavior is due to the fact he’s lonely, as usually dolphins swim in packs (fish swim in schools, dolphins swim in packs). Samy Hassani, director of species conservation at Océanopolis, said:
“If he becomes lonely, he will look for contact, rubbing himself against boats, or people.”
Fearful swimmers were in danger, Lars – the mayor – stepped in for the protection of the people and issued the ban on August 20. “Several swimmers were very scared,” he said. Violators can be fined 39 francs – or $45.
Not everyone thought the ban was necessary. A local lawyer told the press he thought the new law was excessive and contributed to the “demonization” of the dolphin. Erwan le Cornec pledged to work against the new ordinance – and pointed out there are no laws for other sea creatures – like jellyfish.
At last report, Zafar has moved down the coast. Has he found a mate – or will he be back to terrorize those poor humans? (Most of France is on vacation during the month of August.)
Go to the source below for a cool video.
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This is a tough crowd!