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Islanders are being warned to steer clear of a poorly dolphin that has been stranding itself on shore this week.
The bottlenose – a member of a nearby pod believed to be suffering from an illness – washed up this morning at La Haule slipway, but was reported to be placed back in the sea before a vet could reach it.
Although “well-meaning”, British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) have warned that moving the dolphin could cause it more harm, and even pose a risk to humans.
“Whilst we appreciate the dolphin was assisted, they can carry disease that can affect humans and can also thrash out in panic so we recommend it is not approached and we are called immediately. We have a vet and team of trained volunteers from BDMLR on standby to assess this dolphin correctly and have all the equipment needed to make the dolphin safe and as comfortable as possible,” Co-ordinator Donna De Gruchy explained.
Pictured: A local bottlenose dolphin, similar to the one that washed up. (Donna De Gruchy)
BDMLR volunteers are continuing to scan the site while the tide drops.
Islanders who spot any dolphin or pod in difficulty are urged to “immediately” make a report to the JSPCA, who will liaise with BDMLR.
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