Common dolphin euthanised after stranding in Orkney

A dolphin has been humanely euthanised after stranding at the Bay of Ireland in Orkney.

British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) said it received a call at around 8.50am on Sunday reporting the stranded dolphin. Local medics were immediately deployed, with first responders arriving within 25 minutes.

On arrival, medics carried out first aid and a full welfare assessment and the dolphin was found to have an elevated breathing rate, indicating significant stress.

Steps were taken to keep her comfortable and calm, and after a short period her breathing rate reduced sufficiently for a refloating attempt to be considered.

Despite challenging weather conditions, the team spent around 45 minutes in the water preparing and supporting the dolphin during the refloat.

She initially swam away strongly but soon began swimming in tight circles and was unable to make progress into deeper water.

Around 20 minutes later, the dolphin restranded. Following veterinary advice and on welfare grounds, the decision was made to humanely euthanise her.

BDMLR said the dolphin’s remains will be sent to the Scottish Marine Animal Strandings Scheme (SMASS) for post-mortem examination to help determine the cause of the stranding.

The charity thanked HM Coastguard Orkney and Shetland for providing safety cover in extremely difficult sea conditions while medics were in the water.

A statement from BDMLR Orkney read: “The dolphin’s remains will now be sent to SMASS for further investigation to help us better understand what may have caused this stranding.

“A huge thank you to HM Coastguard Orkney and Shetland for providing vital safety cover in extremely challenging weather conditions while medics were in the water.

“Thank you as always to everyone involved for their professionalism, dedication, and compassion in such a difficult situation.”