A YOUNG dolphin has died after it was discovered stranded on the shore of a Highland village.
The British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) was called to the scene after members of the public spotted a common dolphin stranded on a pebbled seashore near Evanton, Easter Ross.
Medics with specialist rescue equipment carried out a full assessment with veterinary support of the juvenile male, which they said seemed to be in “moderate body condition” with no obvious signs of injuries.
In a statement posted on social media on Tuesday, the BDMLR said that medics helped the dolphin back into the water in a bid to help reduce stress and stabilise its condition.
However, according to the medics, the dolphin did not respond, and its overall condition declined.
Medics then had to make the decision to “put the dolphin to sleep” to prevent any further suffering.
A post-mortem examination of the dolphin will be carried out to help experts understand why the dolphin became stranded.
In a statement, BDMLR said: “On welfare grounds, the decision was made to put the dolphin to sleep to prevent further suffering. He has since gone for a post-mortem examination to help us understand more about why he stranded and the life he led.
“We extend our warmest and heartfelt thanks to the member of the public who raised the alarm, and to our incredible Medics for their dedication, compassion and teamwork throughout this response.”
BDMLR is a charity that aims to rescue and assist marine animals across the UK. You can donate here to the charity.
