On Sunday, 27 common dolphins stranded in Ballyvaughan. The dolphins were in good body condition, indicating they were a healthy pod prior to the event. This was most likely a case of navigational error on a dropping tide, with this pelagic pod becoming disoriented in shallow, muddy terrain and unable to escape before the tide receded.
This area was very very difficult to work in, due to soft mud. The safest option for all was to wait for a natural refloat with the incoming tide. When the tide returned, the first four refloated at approximately 13:30, with the remaining group of 24 refloating shortly before 15:00. Once the tide had risen enough to permit limited intervention, IWDG responders assisted numerous dolphins, including calves swimming in the wrong direction. Some calves swam directly to their mothers once freed from seaweed and gently guided.
Sadly, seven dolphins died, mainly those that had stranded on their sides. The remaining dolphins refloated and were observed swimming into deeper water as the tide rose.
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Monday Update — Live-Stranding Response Continues
Early on Monday morning, members of the local community checked the area and reported back to IWDG that several dolphins were again in shallow water. Volunteers were mobilised and, assisted by NPWS, located and attended to eight dolphins. These animals were positioned upright, monitored, and cared for, awaiting the incoming tide which took several hours. All eight dolphins were refloated during the incoming tide and herded out of the bay. There was no sign of them when the last volunteer left the area, so fingers crossed all remained out of the area over night
Live strandings are extremely difficult and often heartbreaking, but responders on scene worked calmly and carefully to give these dolphins the best possible chance of survival in an area where deep mud severely limits intervention.
A huge thank you to all involved — IWDG responders and officers, NPWS, and the local community — who supported the response and helped ensure the safest possible outcome in extremely challenging conditions. Some responders attended both days, both which were long on full days. A huge heartfelt thanks to all who responded and coordinated this live stranding response so well in challenging conditions.
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If you ever encounter a live-stranded dolphin:
• Do not drag the animal, especially by the tail — this can cause serious or life-ending injury.
• Take a photo or short video for IWDG.
• Record the location on Google Maps or note GPS coordinates.
• Call the IWDG Emergency Stranding Hotline immediately with this information on 097 28118
Our responders will assess the scene and the animal, which helps determine the safest and most appropriate course of action on welfare and human safety grounds.
special thanks to Mary, Perry, Paola, Yuki, Lea, Aisha (IWDG), Sean (IWDG), Trea (IWDG), Kevin (IWDG), Csilla (IWDG), Marcus (IWDG), Brendan (IWDG), Penny NPWS, Deirdre NPWS, Cian (IWDG) Sibéal (IWDG), Scott, Melissa (IWDG).