Tarmon, Mullet Peninsula, Co. Mayo
26th January 2023
A particularly difficult stranding occurred at Tarmon, Blacksod, Co. Mayo (a live stranding hotspot), on Sunday the 22nd of January. A robust female striped dolphin was live-stranded and preyed upon by gulls before being found by a member of the public.
Female striped dolphin was live stranded at Tarmon, Blacksod, Co. Mayo
Unfortunately, her injuries were too severe and euthanasia was the kindest thing to do for the welfare of the animal. Gulls are wonderful recycling machines, but unfortunately, they often seize the moment whether a dolphin is alive or dead.
Vet administers euthanasia injection.
Unfortunately, her injuries were too severe and euthanasia was the kindest thing to do for the welfare of the animal. Gulls are wonderful recycling machines, but unfortunately, they often seize the moment whether a dolphin is alive or dead.
Vet confirming death.
Thanks to Cyril Padden, who discovered the dolphin and immediately alerted the IWDG stranding network, and Bianca from Erris Vet, who came to this dolphin’s aid. Thank you to Mayo County Council as well for removing the remains from the beach. Also, thanks as always to the local volunteers, Derek, Gemma, Catherine, and Tom, for their prompt assistance.
Here are some tips on how to assist a stranded dolphin, whale or porpoise:
- Call the IWDG stranding hotline at 09728118 for advice and assistance if volunteers are nearby. Do not attempt to move it without trained IWDG volunteers or expert advice.
- Remain with the animal until help arrives – your presence is enough to keep the gulls from preying upon the animal.
- Never drag or lift an animal by the tail or fins as this may cause further injury which could be fatal in the long term.
- Keep the area quiet – try to keep people and dogs away to prevent further stress, and prevent the animal going into shock (which is fatal). Speak in a hushed voice or whisper near the animal.
All small cetaceans are first assessed by trained volunteers or NPWS/Vet to determine if they are suitable candidates for re-floating, if they need to be relocated before a re-float attempt to avoid re-stranding, or if euthanasia is the most appropriate course of action, as it was in this case. Detailed photos and videos sent to IWDG’s Live Stranding Network Coordinator will assist in this assessment.
Catherine & Gemma
IWDG Live Stranding Network