Dolphin skull found in luggage at Detroit airport

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers made one hell of an aquatic find during routine inspections of international baggage at Detroit Metro Airport last week.

CBP agriculture specialists were performing X-rays on bags returning to the United States after being separated from their owners when they found what was determined to be a young dolphin skull, according to a news release.

The smuggling of certain wild animals, including marine mammals, and products made from them, “is subject to import and export restrictions, prohibitions, permits or certificates, as well as other requirements,” according to CBP.

“Possession of wildlife items, especially those of protected animals, is prohibited,” said port regional manager Robert Larkin. “We take wildlife smuggling seriously and work closely with our federal partners at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect wildlife and their habitats.”

The US Fish and Wildlife Service took the skull for further investigation.

CBP encourages travelers to become aware of regulations before attempting to smuggle wildlife into the United States “to avoid penalties, seizures, and even arrests.”

It is not known at this time who is the owner of the bag and if he will face charges.