Friday, September 12, 2003
Friday, September 12, 2003 |
|
How to help stranded coastal wildlife Have you ever wondered what to do if you see a stranded dolphin or whale while visiting Georgia's beaches? If you visit the Georgia coast on a regular basis, it's possible that you could be faced with this situation. If so, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources' Wildlife Resources Division asks that you contact the local authorities immediately and in the event of a live stranding, stay with the animal until help arrives. WRD, through the support and help of the Coastal Resources Division, other government agencies, biologists, veterinarians and volunteers, coordinates the Georgia Marine Mammal Stranding Network, in cooperation with the National Marine Fisheries Service. The MMSN responds to any marine mammal stranding along the Georgia coast in an effort to collect data, evaluate the situation, and, should the animal still be alive, determine what further actions are necessary. Occasionally, in the event of a live stranding, the animal can be pushed out to deeper water in an attempt to return it to the ocean, or it can be relocated to a facility to undergo rehabilitation for a later release back to the ocean. Marine mammals are fully aquatic animals that have lungs and breath air. They include any species of dolphin, manatee, and whale. WRD asks that you do the following if you ever come across a stranded marine mammal: Contact the local authorities immediately. Note the location, number of animals, and if any are alive. If possible, return to the area and wait for help to arrive. Do not attempt to push the animal out to deeper water or move the animal in any way. If the animal is alive and out of the water, attempt to place wet towels and/or clothes across the back to keep the animal hydrated and shaded from the sun. However, minimize contact to reduce any risk or injury to yourself and the animal.
|
Back to the Sports Home Page