Seven common dolphins are back in the ocean after a coordinated rescue effort on Cape Cod on Monday, from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). The dolphins became stranded in Loagy Bay in Wellfleet, Massachusetts, at around 8 a.m.
IFAW said rescue crews were able to safely extract all seven dolphins from the stranding site. Each animal received a health assessment and treatment before being transported to Herring Cove in Provincetown, Massachusetts, for release.
The dolphins were returned to the ocean at approximately 1:15 p.m. Cape Cod is one of the world’s most common locations for dolphin strandings, particularly for common dolphins. Experts say the area’s tidal flats and complex coastline can make it difficult for pods to navigate, especially when tides recede quickly.
While dolphin strandings often draw crowds, wildlife experts remind the public that the best way to help is by keeping a safe distance and contacting trained responders. Attempting to push stranded dolphins back into the water without proper evaluation can actually reduce their chances of survival if they are injured, exhausted, or disoriented.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.