Local Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network responders rescued a dolphin stranded near the Port Royal Sound estuarine system on Saturday morning.
“This past Saturday morning, May 9th, LMMN responded to a live dolphin stranding near the Port Royal Sound estuarine system on the north end of Hilton Head Island,” a Facebook post by the non-profit organization said.
“Thanks to the rapid response of LMMN staff, trained volunteers, and regional partners, the approximately 7’10” adult male dolphin was successfully stabilized, refloated, and observed swimming away from shore. This dolphin is known to local researchers from the University of South Carolina Beaufort as ‘Klaus,” the post said.
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LMMN suspects Klaus became temporarily trapped in a tidal pool due to shifting sands and changing tidal conditions, likely becoming isolated between sand bars as water levels receded.
Volunteers immediately then began working to stabilize and guide him back into deeper water with specialized equipment.
LMMN extends special thanks to volunteer responders Amber Kuehn, Merry Harvey, and Jack Harvey for their assistance during this response effort.
“We are also especially grateful to the local community members who quickly reported Klaus’ stranding, helping ensure responders could arrive as quickly as possible.”
Marine mammals are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. If you encounter a stranded dolphin or whale, please do not attempt to push the animal back into the water. Instead, maintain a safe distance and contact trained responders immediately.
To report a stranded marine mammal in South Carolina, call the Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline: 800-922-5431.
“Thank you to everyone who continues to stand with us for South Carolina’s dolphins and whales,” the Network said in its post.
The Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network’s focus is to protect local marine mammals through scientific research, raising awareness and educational outreach.
LMMN provides education to beach visitors hoping to see strand feeding dolphins, engages local school children to become marine stewards in their backyards, and encourages local organizations and businesses to follow best viewing practices to reduce harassment of wild dolphins.
With many years of experience working with the marine mammal community, LMMN aims to act as a bridge between the scientific and local communities.
