26 September 2005
Rescue & Rehab
10/2/05 - Released dolphins' tags no longer transmitting; a message from MMC President, Robert Lingenfelser
The dolphins' progress as of September 26th is outlined on the map above,with tag 42481 representing R372 (red line) and tag 42480 representing R134 (blue line).
Robert's message:
Hi All,
As of 26 September 2005 we are no longer receiving transmissions from either Bumper (R134) or Belle (R372). The latest map is posted for you all to see here on the website.
Bumper's tag stopped transmitting on September 23 and Belle's tag stopped transmitting as of September 25. Both dolphins were diving to between 50m to 250m (150 to 750 feet) and staying down at depth for up to 6 ½ minutes. There is no reason to assume something bad has happened to either dolphin because the data collected from their transmitters shows that they were doing just fine prior to the transmitters failure.
The following things could have happened:
1) Their tags have failed electronically (no evidence for this prior to last transmission); the tag attachments have failed and the tag has been shed (comparable 3-pin configurations have remained Functionally attached to Stenos for from three to more than 100 days)
2) The tags may have been damaged by Hurricane Rita's passing though transmissions were received after the storm had passed.
3) The animals died or are unable to lift their fins above the water. The available information does not support this hypothesis, but we must consider the possibility.
Here is what we think based on the available data. Bumper and Belle are with another pod, they have been moving back and forth along a deep trench along the Cuban Archipelago and diving this trench as if they were hunting. There are times when both animals appear to be separated by a few kilometers and then come back together according to the satellite data. We do not believe they would separate by such a distance if they were not with other dolphins. This species is well known for "mouth tactile" behavior, in other words they like putting things in their mouths and playing with them. I imagine the trailing antennas on the transmitters are tempting things to play with. So I believe the antennas were damaged by their new pod mates and our girls tags are unable to transmit. The available data to date suggests that they were doing great until transmissions suddenly stopped. I choose to believe that this is the most likely scenario because our girls were moving at least 40 kilometers a day, diving to great depths to hunt and eat, and there were no indications of surfacing/dive problems from the most recent transmissions.
The Cubans have a research team in the area and they will attempt to get a signal from their VHF transmitters which are short range line of sight transmitters. We hope that they get a signal, but the truth is that this is unlikely based on some of the above scenarios. Thank you all for your interest, support, and hard work during this event and wish our girls a long and happy life in the wild.
Sincerely,
Robert G Lingenfelser Jr, President
Marine Mammal Conservancy, Inc.
9/22/05 - Released dolphins remain together off coast of Cuba
The dolphins' continued progress is outlined on the map above,with tag 42481 representing R372 (red line) and tag 42480 representing R134 (blue line).
Dr. Wells reported they appear to have been moving back and forth across a deep trench close to the Cuban north coast, ranging offshore and across the trench mostly in waters at least several hundred meters deep.
We request that anyone calling for information please direct your inquiries through our contact numbers.
9/16/05 - Released dolphins remain together off coast of Florida
The girls' progress is outlined on the map above,with tag 42481 representing R372 (red line) and tag 42480 representing R134 (blue line).
Dr. Wells reported on Thursday that the dolphins are travelling south, against the current. Their diving patterns at this point are fairly consistent with those of their pod mates, released earlier this year. Each made 1 dive to 75-100 m, but most dives have been to 50 m or less with average duration of dives less than 2 minutes.
September 12, 2005 - Our last two ladies return to their home in the Sea!
We are very pleased to report the final disposition of the last two females in our care, who were successfully released in the Atlantic Ocean today. The two females made the transport without mishap, and were tracked after release miles off shore. Of course, we'll share any tracking information we receive as they progress.
After more than 6 months of rehab, Marine Mammal Conservancy Staff and volunteers are once again celebrating the bittersweet flavor of saying farewell to our "good girlfriends" from the sea. Joy and sadness, relief and sorrow are in the mix as we reflect upon the events of our longest rehab to date. Thank you for being here with us, in the flesh and in spirit, and for your selfless giving in so many ways.
We pray for a day when mass strandings may be a thing of the past, and these magnificent and gracious creatures may have less drastic opportunities to share their mysteries with us.
August, 2005 - R375 goes to meet her new "family"
This juvenile female has met many challenges during her time in rehab, all the while under the close care of Marine Mammal Conservancy husbandry staff as we worked to insure her survival. Her latest challenge was the transport to new accommodations at a captive facility in Florida which will be her permanent home. She made the journey without mishap and has settled into her new surroundings. Fortunately, she will have the company of her own species, as the facility has other unreleaseable Rough Toothed Dolphin in their care. The facility is also a member of the Stranding Network.
7/19/05 - Our number is now 3
Today we are deeply saddened by the loss of R303. The dolphin had made a remarkable recovery from her various ailments, but succumbed inexplicably yesterday. We are awaiting necropsy and histopathology results to determine the cause of her death. After 138 days of apparent success in rehab, we are left to wonder what unknown factors may have been underlying her state of being.
The remaining dolphins' blood chemistry is very satisfactory at this point. As we begin to ready for their disposition, it is particularly tragic that R303 will not be among those released when that time comes.
6/23/05 - It's "business as usual" for 4 dolphins in rehab with MMC
On day 113 of this rehab (but who's counting?), the four remaining females are still faring well. Their feeding is hearty, they seem somewhat curious and interested in the goings on created by humans, and they've adapted to their temporary life in our care.
The first of 6 daily feeds begin at 8 a.m. Each dolphin's food is carefully prepared to meet her specific nutritional needs. The dolphins' diet in this rehab consists of smelt, capelin, sardines and herring, all of "restaurant quality." Husbandry staff follow strict sanitary procedures for all food and medical-related work. We maintain a "hospital" atmosphere, sanitizing constantly, which is tough on hands, but better for our patients.
These dolphins are obviously survivors. The three adult females all show physical signs of their life in the wild. This is common among cetaceans; each dolphin has unique scars and markings that tell of that animal's history.
As we see their condition continue to improve, naturally we begin to think of a day when these remaining dolphins will once again have their freedom in deep waters. While the release of successfully rehabbed animals is always MMC's ultimate goal, many factors contribute to the decision of when to release. Our Directors, veterinarians and husbandry staff must carefully weigh evidence of healing such as blood chemistry levels and weight-maintenance. Behaviors are continuously monitored and are a consistent barometer of each animal's overall state of well-being. Observations of the dolphins' activity are recorded throughout the day and night.
Another factor which has bearing on the decision to release is the number of potential candidates, both at MMC and with other Network members. MMC is a member of the National Marine Fisheries Service Southeast Regional Stranding Network. This region includes North and South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. A solitary dolphin in rehab may face obstacles to release. This can be taken into account when dolphins of the same species are also in rehab elsewhere in the region.
If deemed appropriate, a lone cetacean within the network may be considered for transfer to unite it with others of its species. We believe this consideration is
very important in release planning protocols.
As for the group of seven who were released in May, Dr. Wells forwarded information of the last transmission on June 9th. Data received throughout the tracking showed the dolphins traveled through the Bahamas, into the deep Atlantic. At the time of the last transmission, they were northeast of Puerto Rico. Though the transmitters were expected to be capable of continuing to provide data for a bit longer than this, we did anticipate that they would at some point dislodge from their attachment to the dorsal fins, and the lack of continuing data is not a cause for concern.
6/14/05 - Data from released dolphins no longer transmitting
According to Dr. Wells, June 9th was the last transmission received from the dolphin with the remaining transmitter. In the past few days, tracking data shows the dolphin was making fewer dives longer than 3 minutes in length or deeper than 25 meters, but Dr. Wells does not consider these differences to be dramatic. We will post his summary of movement and dive data over the course of the tracking as soon as it is complete.
The four females at home are doing well and continue to show improvement, both behaviorally as well as medically. Our concerns over R303's dermal infections are becoming a thing of the past as her white blood cell counts continue to come down each week and are now very near what is considered normal for the species. 6/5/05 - Released dolphins continue to move toward the southeast, NE of Puerto Rico.
Dr. Wells continues to track the dolphins' progress. According to Dr. Wells, "it has now been 4 days since we have received transmissions from 54612 [R307, female - blue line], while transmissions from 57604 [Y352 male - red line] have continued."
Dr. Wells believes that the transmitter's battery power was good and the behavior of the female R307 did not differ significantly from the male Y352, he suspects that the tag has come off, rather than it being a failure of the device or a problem with R307.
Based on the tracking data to date, the two dolphins fitted with satellite transmitters have for 33 days remained together. We feel it is very likely that the pod is still together. Also, they are located in the open Atlantic, in waters known to be fertile hunting grounds. Time and depth data shows dives typically to 75 to 100 meters (approximately 250 to 330 feet) with one dive as deep as 300 meters (990 feet). Their average dives times are 4.5 - 5 minutes.
5/31/05 - Released dolphins moving roughly southeast through the Sargasso Sea, still apparently together.
Remaining 4 dolphins faring well in rehab
The "Fab Four" at Marine Mammal Conservancy Lagoon The "fab four" are doing quite well in the lagoon, Their behavior and activity are indicative of their progress toward health. All are eating well, and continue to improve.
The level of stress for wild animals in rehabilitation is a major factor in their ability to return to health. We are very satisfied with our charges' apparent comfort in their surroundings. Even during roundup for medical procedures, the pod is obviously more relaxed than they were earlier this month and it is no longer necessary to move them to the shallower basin for most procedures.
R375
R303 R375 is growing and gaining weight. She is very active, practicing her breaching and tail slapping.
This is very endearing to watch because she's yet to coordinate her little body to those movements,
so she looks a bit spastic at times. This juvenile is very loving and is now more actively involved
with her companions in the pod.
R303's tissue-wasting and lesions have begun to heal in earnest. The abraded areas on her fluke and
pecs have also begun to flesh back in. She's now healing beautifully in those areas and is eating heartily,
breaching and playing. Her size is impressive.
R372
R134
R372's once-pronounced "c" curvature is completely gone! This animal was the final survivor
from Mote in Summerland Key. She eats well, though is sometimes finicky, preferring herring and sardines
to smelt and capelin. (All four varieties comprise her daily diet.)
R134 exhibited an inseparable bond with R137, but appears to be recovering from her mourning and has
a very healthy appetite now. She loiters directly in front of her feeder at mealtimes, taking fish gently,
then opening wide as if to say, "more, please." She's socializing and interacting well with the
others, though at times she chooses to spend time alone.
The Marine Mammal Conservancy Lagoon, Key Largo
MMC's Program aims to perfect methods for preparing marine mammals for release back into the wild,
while providing for their optimal mental and physical health. We believe in natural lagoon/sea pen
rehabilitation, believing it provides the least stressful and most successful rehab setting. Our
success rate, compared to nationwide rates, suggests that MMC is on the right path.
5/26/05 - Released dolphins staying together, remaining 4 holding steady in rehab
5/22/05 - 4 dolphins continue to progress in rehab
Our remaining patients, 4 females, are still showing overall improvement. Careful study of their blood chemical levels is made each week in order to update their medical treatment. Thus far, our vets and husbandry staff have been pleased with improvements in R303's skin condition and have remarked that R372's "c" curvature is becoming undetectable now.
5/21/05 - Released dolphins progress SE through Atlantic waters
Tracking data suggests that the pair continues moving towards the Southeast through the Atlantic, and remain together. The possibility is high that all released dolphins are still together.
5/20/05
Data suggests that Y352 (male - red line) and R307 (female - blue line) are still together this morning and seas may be rough at their location.
5/18/05
Y352 (male - red line) and R307 (female - blue line) appear to still be together, and they have turned to the Southeast at Latitude 26.95 North, Longitude
72.39 West.
5/17/05 - Released dolphins' in deep water off Bahamas,
Condition of 4 dolphins still in rehab continues to improve
Tracking information illustrates the movement of Y352 (male - red line) and R307 (female - blue line), who are currently diving in deep Atlantic waters east of the Bahamas. Their location is approximately 640 kilometers/400 miles east of the Florida coast at West Palm Beach. The probability is good that all released dolphins are still together.
Randall S. Wells, Ph.D., of Mote Marine Laboratory, is in charge of tracking the dolphins' progress for NOAA Fisheries. According to Dr. Wells, their average dives are 50 - 75 meters with
some dives in the 100 - 150 meter range. Dive duration on average is 4.5
minutes.
Back in Key Largo, the condition of each of our 4 remaining dolphins is hopeful. For all, blood testing results are satisfactory, showing indicators of positive improvement. In addition, R372 is showing significant improvement from her "c" curvature, a very good sign. R303 still suffers from a form of dermal infection that defies diagnosis. This condition may cause her rehabilitation to be for a longer term, but we are seeing marked improvement in her white cell counts and her appetite remains very healthy. Her treatment with potent antibiotics continues, causing her nutritional needs to be greater than normal. She is currently consuming approximately 37 pounds of fish per day, compared with that of R134 and R372, whose consumption is a more normal 20 - 25 pounds per day.
The calf is developing rapidly and appears to be heartily enjoying her new surroundings in the Lagoon. With more depth and area to move around in, she is fond of racing around and is making first attempts at breaching. This behavior in a juvenile is adorable and quite amusing to see. Staff members watch proudly as she practices her new skills and are often amused by her antics as she attempts to "horn in" on her elder companions at feeding times. Her diet consists of 3 - 4 pounds of fish as well as 5.2 liters of formula per day.
Sunday is blood collection day, as usual, and our volunteer needs are greatest during these procedures.
Preliminary necropsy results for well-beloved R137 indicate that her health concerns were many and varied. Among these, her ingestion of foreign objects that remained in her stomach is puzzling. Due to the type of objects she ingested (beer cans) and their apparent age (can style was pull-top), indicating the possibility that she might have been living with the can inside her for a long time, we wonder how she survived as long as she did. Damage to her stomach was apparently partially healed and undoubtedly contributed overall to her lack of health, but has been ruled out as the cause of her death. In fact, NOAA Fisheries has listed the cause of death as stroke. At this time we still believe that R137 reached an advanced age, but this will only be confirmed after examination of dental evidence by NOAA Fisheries.
Trash Talk - What they are teaching us
Of all the many discoveries we make with these and other marine mammals through our observations during their rehab or in our research following their deaths, one thing is patently clear: a quest for survival will cause hungry animals to eat almost anything.
The difference between a silver object (such as an aluminum can) and the silvery flash of fish scales may not be easily discernible for a curious or starving animal. Translucent plastic grocery sacks float with the tide and can resemble jellyfish. Even a seemingly-harmless piece of rubber sponge may be mistaken for food by an animal hungry enough. The presence of these foreign articles in their environment is dangerous and represents one of the most significant threats to the survival of marine animals and all wildlife species: and it's us--the human race.
Along with the "progress" humans have made in developing chemicals and lightweight and durable materials for our convenience, we've created non-biodegradable nightmares for every other creature that shares the earth with us. Detrimental human impact on the environment is inarguable. Each time we tally up the results of that impact, our own future becomes less certain. The extinction of just one species can be expected to trigger a chain of events with consequences so far-reaching, it ultimately effects every other living thing.
5/13/05 - Released dolphins' progress tracks in Bahamas, 4 dolphins still in rehab
On Friday, tracking progress illustrates the continued progress of Y352 (male - red line) and R307 (female - blue line), who are currently in 7,000 to 8,000 feet of water and are staying together.
On the homefront, we mourn the loss of "Grandma," (#R137) who rejoined the group in the Basin at the time of the release of her Lagoon mates on May 3rd. Her condition had declined over the past several days. Necropsy findings are expected to show advanced age on this elder female.
4 dolphins are still in rehab. They now occupy the deeper Lagoon, and are fairing satisfactorily at present.
5/9/05 - Released dolphins' progress tracks between Bahamas and Cuba
On Monday, tracking progress illustrates Y352 (male - red line) and R307 (female - blue line) as they occupy the Atlantic waters between the Bahamas and Cuba. The dolphins, fitted with satellite transmitters, appear to be staying together and it is considered probable that the other 5 are with them, as well. Click on the map at top to enlarge.
7 dolphin photographed near Andros Island, Bahamas
5/8/05 - Dolphins observed in shallows near Andros Island, Bahamas
On Saturday, tracking progress illustrated Y352 (male - red line) and R307 (female - blue line) as they made their way through the Atlantic waters off the coast of Andros Island, Bahamas. All 7 released rough-toothed dolphin were fitted with radio transmitters, and Y352 and R307 were also fitted with satellite transmitters, which are the indicators on the map. The proximity of the two lines suggests that the two dolphins are staying together. It is probable that the other 5 are also in close proximity.
NOAA officials have discussed a possible reconnaissance trip to observe the dolphins and insure that their activity in the area remains normal, as the waters off Andros are fairly shallow for this deep-water species. Photographs provided by Bahama Fisheries indicate a small group of dolphins off Andros, whose location corresponds with satellite information on dolphins released Tuesday.
7 dolphins released Tuesday!
5 still in rehab at Marine Mammal Conservancy site
5/7/05 - 5 rough-toothed dolphins remain at Key Largo site
Our remaining 5 charges continue their convalescence with MMC. Their ongoing care includes medical treatment for their various symptoms, careful attention to their nutritional needs, physical therapy, and continuous monitoring of their overall condition. The dolphins are together in our Basin location. Their behavior and activity remain fairly stable and normal, and they are feeding well.
Following diagnostic procedures on Sunday, if the dolphins' condition continues to improve, we will consider their transition to our Lagoon. In this larger area, they will enjoy swimming in deeper water. We feel that this could be of significant benefit to the overall emotional condition of the remaining "pod," but it can only be accomplished if their health status warrants such a move.
The juvenile's growth and activity is satisfactory, although she has not established a significant bond with any of her elder companions. Due to her youth and the necessity of her education by close bond with another of her species, it is doubtful that she will gain all the skills necessary to survive life in the wild. Part of MMC's mission, should she ultimately be deemed unreleasable, is to insure that her future in captivity would be lived in as close to a natural environment as possible.
7 healthy dolphins were successfully released today in what is history's largest simultaneous release to date! The dolphins released were: R136, R304, R306, R307, R354, Y352 and Y372. (Letter R refers to females, Y refers to males).
Having satisfied all federal requirements, MMC carried out the planned release on Tuesday morning. Release was accomplished with the help of approximately 40 people including staff and other volunteers.
The day started early as volunteers gathered for a pre-release meeting at 5:30 am. Assignments were given, and then roundup of the release candidates began. Two dolphins were fitted with satellite transmitters, and all were fitted with VHF transmitters for tracking purposes. The dolphins were then transported by truck to Horizon Divers, a short drive of only about 6 minutes in length. The trucks were escorted by a Fish and Wildlife official who assisted with traffic control to insure smoothness of transport.
At the dock, the dolphins were loaded into position aboard two 45' Corinthian catamarans, fitted with thick closed-cell foam padding. Volunteer staff attended them throughout the journey, carefully watching their vital signs, keeping them cool and hydrated.
The boats traveled about 14 miles offshore, east of Key Largo, into waters over 600 feet in depth. Once there, simultaneous release was coordinated using 7 exit points on the boats. The dolphins were to be placed in their stretchers on backboards which would be tilted at the time of release to provide a "slide" for sending them into the water safely. In a brief time, the dolphins were in position for release and everything was ready. When the boats were situated adjacent to each other, Chairman Art Cooper gave the count for release. On the count of three, all backboards were lifted and 7 dolphins dove to freedom. Seconds later, they were seen by emotional and cheering volunteers and observers to be swimming together, breaching and rolling in the waves.
In the following hour, the dolphins were observed swimming together, hunting in a school of fish. Their progress was tracked by helicopter and will continue to be followed using the satellite and radio technology. The transmitter tags will be followed as long as possible, and will ultimately dislodge themselves.
Staff and husbandry personnel agree that this has been as smooth and well-orchestrated a multiple release as they have ever seen. Of course, we are thrilled to have seen our rough toothed friends safely returned to their home in the ocean.
Back at the site, there is still much to be done. In addition to the regular care and feeding of the 5 remaining dolphins, following the release, volunteers were busy with cleanup.
The remaining 5
The day's excitement was not without its effect on those who remain. At the afternoon feedings, the juvenile (R375) displayed some caution, as she usually does during roundup for treatment. She is normally somewhat evasive at these times and we consider this a positive behavior, as a wild dolphin's survival depends on her ability to evade being caught. Later in the day, her feeding behavior was back to normal, and she engaged in play activity with her feeder and the other dolphins.
R134, who had been in the Lagoon with the releasable members of the pod, has joined the 4 in Basin. Though her transition was smooth, her behavior is understandably somewhat cautious at this time, as her 7 lagoon mates have been removed and she's now in the Basin with 4 new companions. We expect it will take a little time for the remaining dolphins to work out their new hierarchy. At feeding time, the dolphins accustomed to the Basin displayed normal appetites. R 134 hung back initially, but did take fish offered by staff. We anticipate that she will display more voracious feeding as she becomes better accustomed to her surroundings.
Dr. Laura L'Heureux gets an assist from Robert 4/27/05
12 dolphins continue to improve today as we prepare to release healthy candidates of this "pod" in coming weeks. Currently, 7 dolphins are considered to be candidates for release and MMC's official application and plan for release has been reviewed by NOAA Fisheries. Their approval is one of many federal requirements to be met prior to release.
MMC's plan for simultaneous release of 7 dolphins includes the use of 2 vessels.
According to tracking sources, the two members of the pod released from rehab at MARS last week are
doing well.
4/19/05
Weekly weigh-in 12 dolphins are still doing very well today. Sunday was a busy day as usual. Weekly weights and measurements are taken for all of the dolphins as well as observations on their general overall health. The process of re-capturing the dolphins for these procedures is a large undertaking, but our protocols have proven to be effective, and we make our first priorities safety and the minimization of stress for the dolphins.
Diagnostic procedures undertaken on Sunday revealed a female with debris in her stomach. This debris was successfully removed and the female seems to be unaffected. The presence of indigestible foreign matter in the gastrointestinal tract is not uncommon in stranded marine mammals, whose often emaciated condition can indicate their inability to hunt or feed prior to stranding. It has been observed that dolphins, like any other species, will seek food from unnatural sources when starving, and thus, may ingest harmful foreign matter. One of the best ways we can think of to keep this from happening is to educate people about proper disposal of trash. If it isn't in the dolphins' environment, then they can't eat it.
Loyd Brown and a special guest feeding the calf. The calf is growing stronger rapidly and is quite agile.
We are beginning to prepare for the release of healthy candidates of this "pod." An official application and plan for release of several of the dolphins has been submitted for NOAA Fisheries' review and approval. There are many federal requirements regarding release, including medical records review by a panel of veterinarians and the granting of a permit by NOAA Fisheries.
MMC's own release protocols include the introduction of live food the rehab dolphins must demonstrably be able to capture and limitation of contact with humans.
4/12/05 - Single survivor rejoins pod
Today we added to the 11 dolphins in our rehab with the single surviving dolphin from another member of the Stranding Network. The addition of this female brings the number back up to 12 in rehab: 8 in the Lagoon, and 4 in the Basin. Although the new female has a substantial "c" curvature and some other symptoms, we are hopeful about her progress.
Physical therapy After a short duration in isolation, she was moved into the Basin to be with her pod mates and we expect that circumstance alone will have a positive effect on her state of well-being. In the meantime, we'll be performing physical therapy, assessing her nutritional needs and providing her with treatment to suit her particular symptoms as she readjusts to being in society with pod mates in a natural water setting.
The majority of the dolphins in rehab with us are so well-stabilized that they no longer need medical supplements. Additionally, with few exceptions, all of the dolphins are gaining weight satisfactorily, a very encouraging factor in their recovery. The dolphins are active, behaving in what we feel are quite normal patterns for their species.
The juvenile has shown very positive response to her diet and her weight has also increased. We are very pleased with this circumstance as balancing her nutritional needs is paramount to the state of her health.
As the success of this rehab continues, the concept of release for healthy candidates begins to be a topic for consideration. Prior to any release plans being made, we will need to comply with federal requirements regarding release. These requirements include review of medical records by a panel of marine mammal veterinarians as well as the obtaining a permit by NOAA Fisheries. As part of MMC's own release protocols, we will also insure that release candidates are able to capture their own food and are desensitized to human contact.
4/6/05
11 dolphins remain in rehab Wednesday. 8 still occupy our Lagoon, and 3 are in the Basin.
4/1/05
Today our number is still 12 dolphins currently in rehab. Of these, 8 are in our deeper Lagoon, and 4 are now in the Basin. The decision to transfer one female back into the Basin was made because her eating habits were not stable. Reluctance at feeding time can indicate problems, and we monitor eating habits very closely. In the Basin, husbandry staff are better able to ensure this dolphin's nutritional needs are met. Without this interaction, she could not survive.
The elder female formerly in the medical pool is now in the Basin and is doing very well. She and the juvenile tend to gravitate toward one another, although their bond is not necessarily that of mother and calf, we are pleased at their social interaction with one another. The juvenile's progress is quite satisfactory and her weight gain is a very good sign.
The 8 dolphins in the lagoon are very active, swimming and breaching quite healthily. Tentative discussions regarding plans for release are beginning to take place.
Dr. Ruth Ewing takes blood samples 3/31/05
12 dolphins continue to survive in rehab. The juvenile is still faring well in the Basin with her pod mates, and eagerly approaches at feeding time. She is getting extra feedings now and her weight has increased, a very good sign. Additionally, the elder female in the medical pool is still under closer watch, but doing well.
The Lagoon and Basin dolphins are active and still eating heartily. Husbandry staff continues to monitor them 24 hours a day, measuring weight twice a week during veterinary visits. Blood testing is done once a week and pathology results are being studied by our team of veterinarians to further our understanding of the health needs of these dolphins while they are convalescing in our care.
3/27/05
Today 9 dolphin are still in the deep lagoon.
Good news today, the condition of the juvenile has improved sufficiently to allow us to move her to the Basin, joining the 2 dolphin already there. Her increased range of movement and the company of other pod mates is hoped to have a very positive effect.
Dr. Hayes and her physical therapy graduate students from the University of Miami are using electro-stimulation therapy with some of the dolphins to help alleviate spinal curvature, and physical therapy is expected to continue for the dolphins in the Basin.
3/26/05
Continuing to hold their own, 9 of the 13 dolphins are now in the deep lagoon. This transition is considered positive. Their condition is hoped to progress with their greater ability to swim and dive in deeper water.
2 dolphin remain in the Basin. Students from the University of Miami have been able to use electro-stimulation to help alleviate a spinal curvature experienced by one of the dolphin, and physical therapy is expected to continue while the dolphins are becoming accustomed to the Basin.
The juvenile is still in the medical pool and continues to nurse from a bottle. The elder female is with her.
3/24/05
13 dolphins continue to survive today.
3/22/05
We still have 13 dolphins surviving: 5 are in the shallow Basin, 6 are in the deep water Lagoon, and 2 remain in our medical pools.
We have returned the maternal female to the Basin, as her presence in the med pool with the orphaned calf did not provide significant benefit to either herself or the calf. Her own rehab needs will be better met in the larger area of the Basin with pod mates who may encourage her progress.
The youngster's health progress is satisfactory; she has begun to nurse voluntarily (from a bottle), chases and consumes whole fish, and needs little in the way of medication. She is now accompanied by the elder female in critical care. Proper socialization with a member of her species is absolutely essential to her ultimate release. If she is to learn the behavior of a wild dolphin, leadership from a parental figure is needed. We hope that the older female will encourage a bond that will provide this youngster with the interaction she needs from her own species.
The Basin and Lagoon dolphins are still active and eating heartily. Their nutritional needs are increasing and husbandry staff meets daily to discuss the changing details of their care. Their condition is, of course, still monitored 24 hours a day. Volunteers called "scribes" note the details of their behavior. From these notes, behavior patterns of this little-known species may be studied.
If we eventually have the privilege of releasing these animals, healthy, back to their natural environment, their legacy will be the opportunity to learn about their species that their presence with us now affords.
3/18/05
Many significant changes today. Our number is now 13. Of the dolphins
surviving, 4 are in the shallow Basin, 6 are in the deep water lagoon, and 3 remain in our medical pools.
In the Basin, 2 females previously in the medical pool currently enjoy having more space to move and swim with their pod mates. There is a significant pair bond between one of these females and a female that had been moved to the deeper lagoon. This female, while displaying considerable activity in swimming, spent a good deal of time at the mouth of the channel, vocalizing. Upon relocation of the other female from the med pool into the basin, there was obvious excitement at the reappearance of her mate, prompting us to relocate this female from the lagoon into the basin so the two can be together. They are inseparable.
Other changes include the installation of a second med pool. One female in critical care currently inhabits this pool, while the youngster and maternal female whose calf died are together in the other med pool. The youngster is progressing satisfactorily, has begun to eat whole fish, although tube feeding continues to insure her proper nutrition. She has exhibited suckling behavior and the pair appear to have begun forming a bond.
The
lagoon dolphins are active, eating heartily, as are those in the basin. Husbandry staff continues to monitor them 24 hours a day.
3/17/05
14 dolphins continue to hold their own today. The
5 in the lagoon are active and swimming strongly, even fluke slapping. They are also calling to the ones in the basin. These 6 in the basin are also showing signs of improvement, but are being monitored more closely. Of the 6, 2 have yet to stabilize as well as the others. A move to the medical pool would be considered if either of them appear to destabilize.
In the medical pool, the
2 adult females are getting much stronger. Husbandry staff is considering their move into the Basin on Thursday. Again, a move like this is considered important for their physical and psychological well being. Being able to swim freely surrounded by their pod mates in a larger area is expected to boost their improvement substantially.
The youngster has yet to show enough improvement for caregivers to feel she could be ready to join the general population. Her nutrition is via tube feeding, though ideally it might be preferable if she had the option to nurse. With her companions' possible relocation, a chance exists to pair her with the maternal female whose calf died in birth.
Dr. Ruth Ewing with help from volunteers monitors a dolphin in critical condition. 3/13/05
14 dolphins are holding steady and many are showing visible signs of
improvement. 5 of the strongest individuals were escorted through the channel into the deeper water of our lagoon today. Their transition was quite smooth and after an initial period of exploration of their new surroundings, the 5 appear to be settling in to the lagoon very positively. They pay routine "visits" to the mouth of the channel, where they communicate with their mates in the basin, and the pod is still able to communicate as a single unit.
The 6 dolphins remaining in the basin have appeared to relax somewhat and are feeding better now that their more dominant pod mates are in the lagoon. Hierarchy changes are apparent - following the move of 5 into the lagoon, these 6 immediately began to form their own sub-hierarchy the moment the gate was closed!
3/12/05
14 dolphins remaining at sunrise. A team of Veterinarians is consulting to attempt to determine the nature of their illness.
3/10/05
Our number is down to 16 dolphins today. Their condition is continually monitored by our veterinarians and husbandry staff.
The condition of the two "maternal" females' formerly in isolation has progressed sufficiently to allow their transfer to the shallow lagoon. This move is considered necessary for their physical and psychological well being. They are now able to swim more freely and are surrounded by their pod mates. Being a deep water species, these dolphins are not accustomed to having boundaries - and we believe our ability to reduce stressors such as confinement in an unnatural environment is crucial to the success of the dolphins' rehabilitation, and eventual release back to the wild. At the time of their transfer, this pair's behavior was firm confirmation of the wisdom of the move. They appear very relieved to be reunited with their pod mates and are swimming actively with the others.We are discussing plans for moving the stabilized members of the pod into our deep water lagoon. Here, the dolphins will have significantly more space in which to swim. Volunteers at every shift will still continue to monitor their movements and stand ready to provide support to them whenever necessary. The infant is still underweight and undernourished. Her care includes feedings every 4 hours with supplements prescribed specifically for her healthy development. She is in the company of 2 of her female pod mates.
3/9/05
18 dolphins are still surviving. All the dolphins are still in critical condition, but most are stable at this point.
3/8/05:
Currently 19 dolphins are still surviving. Of these, many are well-stabilized and swimming freely on their own.
Kate Banick feeds a dolphin cared for by MMC 3/7/05:
MSNBC News Report
3/6/05:
The 26 MMC dolphins survived the night. One died at midmorning. The dolphins are situated in a sea pen in the bay/lagoon, but many may be transferred to the deeper canal today. One mother and calf are located in the above-ground pop-up pool.
Some of the dolphins require support to keep their blowholes out of the water, but many are able to swim freely without physical support. For those who are able to support themselves, volunteers stand by in case support becomes necessary. Feeding includes tubing with fluids (pedialyte and water) as well as solid food (fish).
NOAA Fisheries reports that dolphins are still being spotted off Marathon, and has requested MMC assistance with additional dolphins stranding. Some of these dolphins have been observed simply to be swimming close to shore, but authorities are watching for signs of stranding.
Transport to rehab sites 3/5/05:
26 dolphins were transported to the MMC site in Key Largo. The last truck has arrived at approximately 7 PM. The loading-in was stressful, but most aspects of the transport went pretty smoothly.
An additional 2 dolphins were transported to MARS in Miami and 4 were taken to Mote's satellite location in Summerland Key. This brings the total of successfully rescued dolphins to 32!
3/4/05:
Preparations are being made to transport now-stabilized dolphins to three separate locations for rehab. At the MMC site, volunteers are preparing for as many as 20 to arrive on Saturday.
Once again, Publix has come forward with donation of the use of a refrigerated truck for transport. This effort could not be accomplished without this outstanding support from Publix and all the generous support we're receiving from the local and global community!
Rough Toothed Dolphins cared for at 88 Street 3/3/05:
30 of the animals have been corralled into a canal at the end of 88th street. Another 10-15 are similarly held in a canal at the end of 65th street. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service helicopters scanning continued to spot further small groups of stranded animals during daylight hours Thursday.
Initial rescue effort is focused on health assessments and stabilization. Within the next day or two, focus will shift to relocation of the animals to places better suited for longer term rehab.
The dolphins are very gentle. Their average size is between 6 to 6.5 feet in length, with individuals of all ages. Many of the animals are exhibiting specific behavior patterns indicating possibly some form of compromise to their equilibrium. NOAA officials on site have confirmed 7 deaths.
Members of the Southeast Regional Stranding Network, are working together around the clock in this effort. The community has come forward with solid support in terms of volunteers and initial supplies.
Rough Toothed Dolphins strand in Marathon KeyChilly temperatures have made rescue and rehab efforts more difficult. At one point during the initial 24 hour response, the U.S. Coast Guard directed volunteers to leave the water to avoid hypothermia.
3/2/05:
As many as [approximately] 70 Steno Bredanensis (Rough Toothed Dolphin) began to strand during low tide Wednesday in shallow mud flats on the Ocean side in and around the Marathon area. Initial reports indicated that the animals began to strand about 2000' offshore, making it difficult for rescuers to get to them.
For a complete history of strandings and results, please click
here.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND A STRANDED MARINE MAMMAL!
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