Your next beach vacation just got a lot more expensive — and it's the dolphin's fault.
A new report reveals that rising sea temperatures are driving dolphins and their prey into unusual coastal zones, triggering massive algae blooms that are closing beaches and crippling local tourism economies. But here's where it hits your wallet: to fund emergency ocean cleanups and wildlife monitoring (required by the fed to keep folks safe), dozens of coastal towns are proposing a surprise "Dolphin Tax" on hotel stays, parking fees, and even restaurant bills. Experts say this surcharge could add $50 to $100 to the cost of a single weekend getaway. Meanwhile, the fishing industry is warning that crab and shrimp supplies could be cut by 20% this summer because dolphin pods are shredding the nets to hunt. That means your seafood platter at the pier will cost double, assuming you can even find one. The federal government is scrambling for a solution, but for now, the family trip to the shore is being held hostage by a very charismatic, very expensive mammal.