Mass strandings of whales and dolphins are among the most distressing marine wildlife events. Understanding causes and improving response protocols can reduce suffering.
Stranded cetaceans experience significant welfare harms regardless of the cause of stranding. Beached whales and dolphins experience circulatory problems from unsupported weight, overheating from sun exposure and poor thermoregulation out of water, and psychological distress. Mass strandings are among the most emotionally visible wildlife welfare events, generating public response that is often well-intentioned but sometimes counterproductive — refloting severely ill animals without addressing underlying health problems may prolong suffering rather than saving lives. Coordinated response teams with the expertise to assess prognosis honestly and make euthanasia decisions when appropriate provide better welfare outcomes than public rescues optimized for keeping animals alive regardless of condition.