Strandings page - If you come across a stranded dolphin you can help by knowing what to do

Skip to content

Dolphin Care UK

Dolphin strandings

If you come across a stranded dolphin you can help by knowing what to do and who to call, Dolphins breathe air, and when stranded on the shore need to be kept cool with water. If a stranded dolphin or whale is found please report it as soon as possible.

Stranded Dolphin and Calf/courtesy of CRRU

Report a stranding

Please use the form below to let us know about any recent stranding you've experienced.

Name

Email address

Telephone

Date of stranding

Time of stranding

(Please use 24-hour clock.)

Location of stranding

Stranding details

(Please indicate: where you sighted the dolphins from; the species and number you saw, if known; and anything else you'd like to share.)

Please note that any personal details (such as phone numbers and email addresses) you provide will not under any circumstances be shared with third party companies or published online.

Dead dolphin

Please Report any strandings

The appropriate emergency numbers to call in the event of a live marine mammal stranding are:

1. 01825 765 546 (BDMLR - British Divers Marine Life Rescue)

2. 08705 555 999 (RSPCA - Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)

3. 0800 807060 (Environment Agency)

These numbers can be used 24 hours a day.

Please give an accurate location and description of the stranded animal.

Dead stranded cetaceans can also be reported, to allow the bodies to be examined to try to determine causes of death and collect other important information.

Call 020 7942 5155 to report dead stranded whales and dolphins to the Natural History Museum

Recent developments in rescue techniques, and co-ordination, have led to excellent results in the return of healthy stranded individuals, and even groups of animals, to the sea. If you find a stranded cetacean, please report it to the relevant authorities.

Details of rescue organisations are listed above, or contact the emergency services.

Website Details of the organisations can be found here: Site Links