WELLFLEET, Mass. — Animal rescuers were trying to keep dozens of dolphins away from shallow waters around Cape Cod on Saturday after 125 of the creatures stranded themselves a day earlier.
Teams in Massachusetts found one group of 10 Atlantic white-sided dolphins swimming in a dangerously shallow area at dawn on Saturday, and managed to herd them out into deeper water, said the International Fund for Animal Welfare.
Scouts also found a second group of 25 dolphins swimming close to the shore near Eastham, the organization said, with herding efforts there ongoing as the tide dropped throughout the morning.
Ten dolphins died during the stranding Friday at The Gut — or Great Island — in Wellfleet, at the Herring River.
The organization said it was the largest mass-stranding it had dealt with on the Cape during its 26-year history in the area. The Gut is the site of frequent strandings, which experts believe is due in part to its hook-like shape and extreme tidal fluctuations.
Misty Niemeyer, the organization’s stranding coordinator, said rescuers faced many challenges Friday including difficult mud conditions and the dolphins being spread out over a large area.
“It was a 12-hour exhausting response in the unrelenting sun, but the team was able to overcome the various challenges and give the dolphins their best chance at survival,” Niemeyer said in a statement.
The team started out on foot, herding the creatures into deeper waters and then used three small boats equipped with underwater pingers, according to the organization.
Those helping with the rescue effort include more than 25 staff from the organization and 100 trained volunteers. The group also had the support of Whale and Dolphin Conservation, the Center for Coastal Studies, AmeriCorps of Cape Cod and the New England Aquarium.
Dolphins are highly intelligent and social creatures that are beloved by many. However, in recent years, there has been a concerning trend of dolphins becoming stranded in the shallow waters off the coast of Cape Cod. This phenomenon, known as stranding, can be a result of various factors such as illness, injury, disorientation, or even human interference.
Animal rescuers in Cape Cod have been working tirelessly to prevent dolphins from stranding and to rescue those that do become stranded. These efforts involve a combination of research, monitoring, and intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of these magnificent marine mammals.
One of the key strategies employed by animal rescuers is the use of acoustic monitoring devices to track dolphin movements and behavior in the waters off Cape Cod. By studying the vocalizations and movements of dolphins, researchers can gain valuable insights into their behavior and potential reasons for stranding. This information can then be used to develop strategies to prevent future incidents.
In addition to monitoring, animal rescuers also conduct regular patrols along the coastline to look out for stranded dolphins. When a stranding is reported, a team of trained professionals quickly mobilizes to assess the situation and provide assistance to the stranded animal. This may involve carefully guiding the dolphin back into deeper waters or transporting it to a rehabilitation facility for further care.
Furthermore, efforts are being made to raise awareness about the importance of protecting dolphins and their natural habitat. Educational programs and outreach initiatives aim to inform the public about the threats facing dolphins and what can be done to help prevent stranding incidents. By promoting responsible boating practices, reducing pollution, and respecting marine wildlife, we can all play a role in safeguarding the well-being of dolphins in Cape Cod.
Overall, the efforts of animal rescuers in Cape Cod are crucial in protecting dolphins from stranding and ensuring their survival in the wild. Through research, monitoring, intervention, and education, we can work together to create a safer environment for these incredible creatures. By supporting these efforts and advocating for the conservation of marine wildlife, we can help to preserve the beauty and diversity of our oceans for generations to come.
