Hawaii Authorities Investigate 33 Swimmers for Harassing Spinner Dolphins

Hawaii authorities have referred 33 people to US law enforcement after they allegedly harassed a pod of wild spinner dolphins in waters off the Big Island. It is against federal law to swim within 50 yards of spinner dolphins in Hawaii's nearshore waters. The prohibition went into effect in 2021 amid concerns that so many tourists were swimming with dolphins that the nocturnal animals weren't getting the rest they need during the day to be able to forage for food at night.