People in Binh Dinh prepare to bury the dolphins following local rituals. Photo by Baobinhdinh.
According to Vu Long from the Centre for Biodiversity Conservation and Endangered Species, the two dolphins were found dead on December 12 and 13 by local fishermen.
"Both of the dolphins were about 1.2 metres long and 20 kilos in weight," Long said. "One of them was wrapped in a fishing net and had injuries on its neck and eyes. They have been buried in a dolphin graveyard following local rituals."
Long added that dolphins belong to the Indo-Pacific finless porpoise species, which the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources rates as vulnerable. They live near the shore in small groups.
According to residents, dolphins are usually seen in the waters of Nhon Chau Commune, Quy Nhon City. During rough seas, they often move closer to shore and can get stuck in fishing nets.
"Four dolphins have been found dead in Nhon Chau so far this year," Long added. "Local fishermen should be advised not to spread nets in the area where the animals live during rough seas."