Crews worked for a second straight day to rescue nearly 50 bottlenose dolphins stranded in the largest known stranding of the marine mammal in Massachusetts history.
The stranding was first reported on Monday morning, with an initial estimate of 28 to 30 bottlenose dolphins stranded at First Encounter Beach in Eastham, Massachusetts. However, as the day progressed, the number of stranded dolphins increased to 19 across three locations along a nine-mile stretch of coastline.
The dolphins, which are typically an offshore species, were found in decent condition, with two already fitted with satellite tags to monitor their movements. The goal is to coax them out of Wellfleet Bay and give them the best chance at survival.
The next low tide is expected around 6 p.m. this evening, and crews will continue to monitor the situation. The International Fund for Animal Welfare warned that dolphins can become injured and exhausted during a stranding, and should never be pushed or dragged back into the water.
There has been an increasing trend of bottlenose dolphins occurring closer to Cape Cod's shores in recent years, a phenomenon that has been observed by the group. The stranding is a stark reminder of the importance of protecting marine life and preserving their habitats.
