Killer whale rescued on the Orkney Islands

The British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) was shocked to find a live-stranded orca instead of the reported dolphin at the rescue site on the Orkney Islands.

The young killer whale was successfully refloated.

First aid such as covering with water, monitoring the breathing rate, and keeping the young animal in a comfortable position was immediately provided. After an hour work together with the locals, the team managed to turn the 3.4 meter long killer whale into an upright position. When the tide came in, a dolphin stretcher was used to support the animal. Soon enough, it was able to swim freely, and swam off strongly back into the sea.

Though orcas can be found in UK waters, such life strandings are incredibly rare and this one is thought to be the first successful refloat carried out by the organization. BDMLR says they were extremely fortunate to have such a skilful team on the remote island.

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