Wildlife

Marine Mammal Stranding First Response

First response to stranded marine mammals determines welfare outcomes and requires rapid, coordinated action by trained responders.

Key Facts

Initial assessment determines prognosis and whether rehabilitation is appropriate
Inappropriate first response can cause further injury to stranded animals
Shade, water misting, and keeping crowds back are key first response actions
Euthanasia of animals with poor prognosis is a welfare-positive decision

Welfare Considerations

Marine mammals stranded alive are experiencing welfare emergency from dehydration, thermal stress, and their own weight causing injuries. First responders who provide shade, mist animals, and keep crowds back significantly reduce welfare harm before expert assistance arrives. Prompt euthanasia of animals with poor prognosis prevents prolonged suffering. Training members of the public in appropriate first response behavior improves welfare outcomes.

What You Can Do

Learn the marine mammal stranding response number for your region
Know the basic first response actions: shade, mist, give space
Never attempt to push stranded animals back into the sea
Contact expert responders immediately and follow their guidance