Marine mammal rescue and research

IFAW supports dedicated teams of highly trained individuals committed to promoting the conservation of marine mammal species (dolphins, whales, porpoises, and seals) and their habitats. IFAW whale rescue teams operate on the East and West Coasts.

On the West Coast, IFAW is a supporter of the California Whale Entanglement Team – an organized crew of local and regional marine mammal professionals and volunteers who have received special training to respond to large whale entanglements along the state's coastline.

IFAW’s Marine Mammal Rescue and Research team (MMRR), based on Cape Cod, provides rapid response and humane care to stranded animals, advances stranding science and promotes public awareness through education.

Marine Mammal Rescue and Research from IFAW - Int. Fund for Animal Welf on Vimeo.

IFAW's Marine Mammal Rescue and Research team go to extreme lengths to save animals in crisis.

Our coverage area encompasses the entire Cape Cod region and extends from the Cape Cod Canal south to the Rhode Island border, representing around 700 miles of coastline. We are one of fourteen organizations comprising the Northeast Regional Stranding Network, which ensures expert, rapid response along the entire coast from Maine to Virginia.

Find out more about:

Why animals strand on beaches

Inside a rescue

History of IFAW’s stranding work

How our research helps animals survive

Frequently asked questions

Marine Mammal Rescue and Research Fact Sheet