Dolphins are marine mammals designed for aquatic life. They cannot survive for extended periods outside of water. While they breathe air, their bodies are not equipped for terrestrial conditions.
Dolphin Adaptations for Aquatic Life
Dolphins’ skeletal structure is built for buoyancy, not for supporting their weight on land. In water, their bodies are naturally supported. On land, this lack of bony support leads to organ compression and potential collapse. Their streamlined bodies are optimized for efficient propulsion through water using powerful tail flukes and pectoral fins for steering.
The blowhole is suited for quick breaths at the water’s surface. On land, this respiratory system can become problematic, as sand or debris might obstruct the blowhole, leading to respiratory distress. Their skin, designed for constant hydration, rapidly dries out when exposed to air, becoming susceptible to cracking and sunburn.
Dolphins maintain body temperature with blubber, which insulates in water. This blubber becomes a disadvantage on land, trapping heat as dolphins lack sweat glands to dissipate warmth. They quickly overheat out of water.
The Perils of Being Stranded Ashore
A dolphin’s health deteriorates rapidly out of water due to physiological challenges. The weight of its body, unsupported by water, exerts pressure on internal organs, leading to crush injuries and organ failure. This pressure can also impede breathing, exacerbating respiratory distress.
Overheating is an immediate threat. Their blubber, beneficial in water, traps body heat on land, causing their core temperature to rise quickly. Stranded dolphins also dehydrate rapidly as their skin, adapted for moisture, loses water to the air. This leads to kidney damage and other systemic issues.
Being stranded also induces stress. This physiological stress can weaken their immune system and exacerbate existing conditions, making recovery more challenging. The combination of organ compression, overheating, dehydration, and stress means a dolphin’s survival time on land is very limited.
Responding to a Stranded Dolphin
If a stranded dolphin is encountered, do not attempt to push the animal back into the water. Stranded dolphins are often sick or injured, and returning them to the sea can delay examination and treatment, frequently resulting in re-stranding in a worse condition. Attempting to move a large, distressed animal can also be dangerous for both the dolphin and the rescuer.
Immediately contact local marine mammal rescue organizations, wildlife authorities, or emergency services. In the United States, NOAA Fisheries maintains a stranding hotline (1-877-WHALE-HELP) that connects callers to regional networks. Provide the precise location and a description of the animal’s condition.
While waiting for trained responders, efforts can be made to keep the dolphin wet and cool. This involves gently pouring water over its body or covering it with wet towels or sheets, ensuring the blowhole remains clear to allow breathing. Creating shade with a tarp or umbrella can also help prevent overheating and sunburn.
Minimize stress by keeping noise levels down and maintaining a safe distance of at least 150 feet from the animal. Keep pets and onlookers away, as human presence can exacerbate its distress. Remember that dolphins are powerful wild animals, and caution is necessary to ensure personal safety; avoid contact with their tail or mouth.