Marine Strandings: Key Actions to Rescue Distressed Mammals

In June 2024, two dolphin strandings were reported. Emilie Edouard, the secretary of the non-governmental organization Whale Up and a member of the Save the Blu movement, shared insights into essential actions for rescuing marine mammals in distress in our lagoons and on our beaches.

Understanding Dolphin Strandings

When asked about the recent marine mammal strandings and their likely causes, Edouard emphasized that while strandings can occur among cetaceans, they are not typical. She indicated several potential factors, including water pollution, disturbances from dolphin and whale watching activities, and specific diseases.

The Importance of Public Awareness

Edouard stressed the importance of informing the public about how to assist marine mammals during a stranding event.

“It is not normal for a dolphin to end up in the lagoon—or, worse, on the beach. A stranded marine mammal risks death if it is not quickly returned to water.

Additionally, the stress it experiences may prevent it from freeing itself, leading to a repeat stranding if it is placed back in the water without assistance,” she explained.

Therefore, it is vital for every citizen to know the appropriate steps to take in the event of a marine mammal stranding.

Steps to Take in a Stranding Situation

According to Edouard, the first and most crucial step is to report the location of the stranded animal.

This can be done by sending the GPS coordinates via a mobile phone. It is also essential to provide information about the species, estimated size, and condition of the animal—whether it is alive, injured, or deceased—to both the coast guard and regional fisheries services. Additionally, sending photos and videos can aid in the response effort.

If the Animal is Dead

In the case of a deceased animal, it is imperative not to touch it due to potential health risks. The coast guard will handle its removal through the appropriate services.

If the Animal is Alive

If the animal is alive, calmness is key. Avoid large crowds or loud noises. Establish a safety cordon around the animal using the people present, if possible.

Do not attempt to handle the animal; instead, keep its body moist by spraying it with water or covering its back and sides with damp cloths.

If a distressed marine mammal is found in the lagoon, it should be assisted by the coast guard, who will guide the animal back outside the lagoon and into the open water, giving it a chance to reunite with its pod for survival.

Specific Precautions

Care should be taken to avoid covering or pouring water into the blowhole—the animal’s respiratory opening.

Additionally, it is crucial not to forcibly submerge the animal, as this can lead to drowning.

If possible, maintain the animal’s surface position in the water using a towel or T-shirt.

Unnecessary handling should be avoided to prevent further stress or injury, and it is essential never to pull on the animal’s fins.

Health Risks and Safety Measures

It is advisable to wear a mask and gloves to minimize the risk of disease transmission when dealing with stranded animals. After any contact, individuals should sanitize their hands.

Survival Chances After Rescue

The survival chances for a rescued animal depend on its age, health status, and whether there are other members of its species nearby.

For instance, a young dolphin is less likely to survive than an adult because it requires its mother’s milk and care, as well as protection from its group.

Sufficient Information for Care

Though protocols exist for handling these situations, there are uncertainties regarding whether authorities have the necessary equipment for effective intervention, such as appropriate stretchers, hoses, and ready-to-respond boats.

Fortunately, organizations like the Mauritius Oceanography Institute, Odysseo, and NGOs such as Whale Up, the Marine Megafauna Conservation Organisation, and the Indian Ocean Marine Life Foundation are equipped to identify species and provide assistance.

It is important to note that a dolphin has a better chance of survival in the wild with its companions, as they are social animals that live in family units.

Currently, there is no dedicated care center for these wild animals in the country.

Motivation for Joining Save the Blu

Emilie Edouard and her husband, Frédéric, who operate dolphin and whale watching tours, are motivated by their concerns regarding the threats to cetaceans and turtles, as well as the biodiversity of the lagoons off the west coast of Mauritius.

Their commitment to promoting sustainable and resilient tourism led them to join the Whale Up NGO and the Save the Blu movement.

This citizen initiative, launched by Murali Krishna Appandi, aims to highlight the efforts of dedicated individuals around the island, bringing them together to unite for a common cause.

“This initiative truly captivated us. For us, it is crucial to encourage and support it,” Edouard concluded.

Source: Defi Media