HOW CAN I HELP?

Contact an official organisation. Members of the public are not allowed to transport a stranded dolphin or any other sea animal. Give as much information as possible, like the exact location of the beached animal, the species involved and any visible injuries. Take photos with your phone and send them if you can.

The following organisations can be contacted when an animal is beached or tangled in fishing gear: National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI): Durban 031 361 8567; Cape Town 021 449 3500; East London 043 700 2100; Mossel Bay 044 604 6271; Port Elizabeth 041 507 1911; Richards Bay 035 753 1991; Saldanha Bay 022 714 1726 Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife: 083 380 6298 Bayworld, Port Elizabeth: 071 724 2122 Dolphin Action and Protection Group, Cape Town: 021 782 5845 Keep people and pets away from the animal (especially people who want to take a selfie). Marine mammals are extremely sensitive. Any noise and visible movement will cause additional stress. Cover dolphins and small whales with wet towels. Try to provide shade for the animal with a gazebo or a similar shelter. Turn dolphins and whales onto their stomachs and dig holes for their fins so they are more comfortable and lying at a natural angle. Contact an official rescue organisation.

DON’T

Pour water into the animal’s blowhole or cover the blowhole in any way. Handle or touch the animal more than necessary. Don’t stroke it in an effort to soothe it – touch causes stress. Try to give the animal food or water. Apply sunscreen to the animal’s skin.