Dolphin euthanised after uMhlanga beach stranding

A DOLPHIN that was stranded on uMhlanga Beach in the early hours of Sunday morning has been euthanised despite the best efforts of rescue personnel from several organisations.

Members of the KZN Marine Stranding Netowrk, Sea World team (SAAMBR), Durban Metro Search & Rescue, Ethekwini lifeguards, Ethewini Parks Department, NSRI Ballito and members of the public were all involved in trying to save the young dolphin.

According to the KZN Marine Stranding Network, the dolphin was caught between some rocks and a sandbank in the vicinity of Grannies pool, at about 5.30am.

“The NSRI, Durban Metro Search & Rescue, eThekwini lifeguards and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife assessed the animal and the options of rescue. The animal’s health was assessed and it appeared to have a few minor scratches but it was strong with a good heart and respiration rate. The animal was soon refloated behind backline with the intention of reuniting the animal with a pod offshore. The animal swam off strongly,” the Network said in a release.

However, the dolphin beached again 20 minutes later, close to Bronze beach.

“Given the location of the animal and the difficulties of securing it, the animal was relocated back to grannies pool, but its condition deteriorated extremely rapidly. A veterinarian was called to the scene to assist. Upon examination, it was found that the animal was severely compromised, in terms of its health. Jointly a decision was made and with the authority of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife and the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, the animal was euthanised. Unfortunately, rehabilitation and/or release was not an option for this animal.”

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