ALIVE STRANDINGS:

To determine if a whale or a dolphin stranding is alive, watch the blowhole to see if there is any opening or closing activity. In small dolphins, such as bottlenose or striped dolphins, 2 to 5 breaths per minute is a normal breathing rate and identifies that the animal is recently stranded. Over 6 breaths per minute indicates mild stress or breathing complications. More than 10 breaths per minute indicates severe stress and breathing complications. In medium to larger sized cetaceans such as beaked whales, one breath per minute is a normal breathing rate. Additionally, breathing rates in the largest of stranded whales has been observed at one breath per 20 minutes. Should the breathing rate count indicate stress, please ensure the area around the animal is cleared from people and noise is kept to a minimum.

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DEAD STRANDINGS:

If you believe the animal to be dead, please ensure to stay clear of the vicinity of the animal to prevent transmission of diseases. If you encounter a dead stranding, please immediately report it via the Report A Stranding section of our website, so specialist procedures can be carried out to ensure the safe removal of the animal.