Can we really be fined in Florida for feeding wild dolphins?

Question

Today we rented a pontoon boat and saw lots of wild Dolohins. Well, of course we fed them when they came up to our boat. Later we found out that you can be charged up to 10,000 dollars for feeding the dolphins. Should I be concerned?

Answer 1

Yes.

"FEEDING AND HARASSING DOLPHINS IS HARMFUL AND ILLEGAL, FEDERAL AGENCY WARNS


People who feed or swim with wild dolphins are in danger of harming the dolphins and themselves -- and those who feed or harass dolphins risk being fined for violating federal laws protecting dolphins, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced today.

Feeding wild dolphins has become an increasing and ongoing problem since the late 1980's in many southeast coastal areas, including Florida, Texas and the Carolinas. Additionally, people are swimming with wild dolphins, which may harass the animals. Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, it is illegal to feed or harass wild dolphins. Over the past several years, NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service has posted warning signs, distributed educational materials and produced a public service announcement to help educate the public and commercial operators about the harmful consequences of interactions with dolphins."

Answer 2

My dad a police officer used to say..."Ignorance of the Law is no excuse."
But I would excuse your ignorance, and explain to you the dangers of making pets of wild animals. Your innocence will show if it is real, if not ,you will be found out and punished, because feeding dolphins to befriend them and then kill them is MURDER as plain as if it were murder of a human.

Answer 3

yes

Answer 4

No worries, unless you were feeding them body parts.

Answer 5

not if nobody sees you but if there is then yes

Answer 6

Apparently you can, read all about it:

http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/ole/news/news_SED_070207.htm

Answer 7

YES