Tragic Dolphin Stranding in Carrickfergus: Mother and Calf Euthanised

A common dolphin and her calf were found stranded near Carrickfergus on 10 July 2025. Despite rescue efforts by BDMLR and IWDG, both animals were euthanised to prevent further suffering. The case highlights the harsh realities of marine mammal rescue and the importance of public awareness and support.

Heartbreaking Outcome After Dolphin Stranding in Carrickfergus

A distressing live stranding of a common dolphin mother and calf occurred on 10 July 2025 in Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, resulting in the euthanasia of both animals under veterinary guidance.

Marine Mammal Medic and IWDG member Molly McCormack was among the responders and shared details of the tragic event. The mother dolphin had been spotted exhibiting erratic behaviour in the shallows from early morning. Despite six hours of close observation, her condition deteriorated.

What Happened During the Rescue?

• Initial Sighting: The dolphins were first spotted around 7am, with the mother swimming in circles—a sign of possible neurological issues.
• Response Team: Medics, coastguards, vets, and volunteers monitored the situation closely, hoping the incoming tide would help the pair move to deeper water.
• Veterinary Decision: As the mother grew weaker and more distressed, experts decided to manually beach the animals for further assessment.

Sadly, the mother was not fit for refloating and the calf, still dependent on her, could not survive alone. Both were euthanised humanely under veterinary supervision.

“It was a heartbreaking decision,” said McCormack. “But we did everything legally and ethically possible in the best interest of the animals.”

Why Couldn’t the Calf Be Saved?

Common dolphin calves rely on their mothers for around 19 months. In this case:

• The pod was no longer present
• The calf had rake marks suggesting previous aggressive interactions with other cetaceans
• Orphaned calves rarely survive in the wild
• Rehabilitation of cetaceans is illegal in the UK and Ireland

Why Rescue Efforts Were Limited

Under UK law, it is illegal to keep cetaceans in captivity. This means:

• No legal option to rehabilitate sick or injured dolphins
• Transport stress alone can be fatal
• Even in countries where rehab is permitted, success rates are low for delphinids

DID YOU KNOW:

• Common dolphin calves are maternally dependent up to 19 months
• It is illegal to disturb or touch stranded dolphins
• BDMLR and IWDG offer training to become a marine mammal medic

Public Advice: What You Should Do If You See a Stranded Dolphin

DO:

• Call the BDMLR hotline immediately: 01825 765546
• Provide accurate location and behaviour details
• Wait for trained medics and follow their instructions

DON’T:

• Try to refloat the animal
• Drag it by the tail
• Touch or feed it
• Enter the water or disturb it

 “Report a Stranding”  

Get Involved: Support Marine Mammal Rescue

If you want to help:

• Become a trained marine mammal medic: Sign up here
• Donate to BDMLR or IWDG to support their ongoing efforts
• Participate in events like beach clean-ups and talks

These efforts are voluntary and often emotionally difficult, but they play a crucial role in marine conservation.