What should you do if you find a stranded marine mammal?

Keep your distance from it.

  • Marine mammals are sensitive to stress and will be stressed by your presence.

  • Marine mammals can be dangerous to you (seals and sea lions bite, dolphins and whales have strong tails/flukes that can hit you, and there are several diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans).

  • Some animals on the beach may be resting. Your presence could disrupt their rest and could result in the abandonment of healthy pups.

  • Marine mammals are culturally and legally protected in many countries.

Contact your local stranding network or an expert in your region from the contacts list on this website.