Porpoise washes up on beach
CLEETHORPES WILDLIFE RESCUE CALLED TO SCENE
A DEAD porpoise has tragically washed up on Cleethorpes beach. Authorities were alerted to the animal shortly after 2pm yesterday. At first, it was believed the animal was still alive, but on closer inspection it was confirmed that it had passed away before reaching the beach.
Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue were called to the scene and had marine handlers on their way to treat it before they realised it had died. For Aaron Goss who runs the rescue, it was his first time seeing a porpoise, but also a chance to give people advice should they see anything wash up on our shores.
He said: “We were alerted to the porpoise at 2.20pm by a message on our social media and got down there straight away. When we got there we realised it was already dead and stood down our marine handlers team.
“Sadly, it had taken quite a beating in the rough tides and had died at sea before being washed up.” He added: “This was the first time I’d seen a porpoise, but we do have marine medics who have ample training and knowledge of them. It is now down to the council to decide whether they will remove the animal or allow it to wash back out to sea.” Aaron also advised people on what to do in future should they see an animal on the beach. “I recommend taking a photo of whatever it is you’ve seen and sending us a message with your location. After doing so, you should stay away from the animal for your own safety.”
The advice was echoed by Cleethorpes Beach Safety who said: “We’re advising people to stay away from the porpoise, keep dogs on leads and leave it to us to sort it.” With any incidents involving marine animals, Aaron works closely with specialist teams to ensure the right approach is taken.
“We have a team on standby for these kind of incidents, especially because of the storm. During the adverse weather, this is the only call out we have received so far, but we are expecting more in the coming months as adult seals begin to migrate to Donna Nook.”