Stranded Marine Mammal Rescue and Research - Global
When the tide is low, marine mammals can strand
We rescue stranded marine mammals, investigate the causes of strandings, and share our expertise around the world.
Problem
Due to its gently sloping sandy beaches and dramatic tidal fluxes, Cape Cod is one of the world’s busiest locations for cetacean (that is, dolphin and whale) strandings.
For the past 20 years, that’s where we’ve been based. We have been the first line of defense for marine mammals in distress. Yet, we knew there was more to do to ensure dolphins and whales were thriving after release.
Marine Mammal Rescue’s 5000th Response in 2018
Solution
We’ve pioneered field health assessments and treatments to increase the likelihood of survival after release. We also employed innovative tracking technology to evaluate whether or not the dolphins survive.
Using small, temporary satellite tags that we safely attach, we are able to track them nearly two months after rescue. Our efforts have shown that stranded animals not only survive after release, but thrive.
Today, IFAW is a world leader in rescuing stranded animals.
Drones help us determine the amount needed to sedate and save whales.
Since 1998, we’ve increased our dolphin release rates from 15 percent to more than 79 percent.
every problem has a solution, every solution needs support.
The problems we face are urgent, complicated, and resistant to change. Real solutions demand creativity, hard work, and involvement from people like you.