Dolphin Rescue in Stuart

Last week, the FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Stranding and Population Assessment team assisted in an approved rescue of a two and a half year old dolphin calf in Stuart, with NOAA Fisheries. The entangled calf was swimming with its mother in the St. Lucie River before traveling north up the Indian River Lagoon towards Stuart Causeway. Partners from Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Columbus Zoo, Hubbs-Sea World Research Institute, Martin County Sheriff, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, National Marine Mammal Foundation, NOAA Fisheries, SeaWorld Orlando and University of Florida were able to safely capture both the mother/calf pair. During the disentanglement of the calf, it was found that the mother also had an entanglement issue on her left pectoral fin. Both dolphins were successfully disentangled from the gear and released on site. This work was conducted under NOAA Fisheries permit #24359.

If you see a marine mammal in distress, please call 1-888-404-3922.

The FAU Harbor Branch Stranding and Population Assessment team works under grants provided by the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Foundation through the Protect Wild Dolphins Specialty License Plates.