March 23, 2021 — The following was released by NOAA Fisheries:

NOAA Fisheries’ Office of Protected Resources, Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program has prepared a report on marine mammal strandings and emergency response in the United States for calendar year 2017.

In 2017, there were 5,764 confirmed strandings in the United States. Of these, 1,426 were in the Greater Atlantic Region. While more than 30 different species of marine mammals can be found in the waters of New England and the mid-Atlantic states, the majority of stranding reports involve seals. To read more about strandings in the Greater Atlantic Region check out the regional report.

What Can We Learn From Strandings?

Every marine mammal stranding event is unique and poses different challenges. Organized stranding response by highly trained and authorized personnel best serves the well-being of the stranded animals, and helps manage risks to public health and safety. The U.S. Marine Mammal Stranding Response Network is comprised of more than 100 organizations that provide first response capabilities for cetaceans and pinnipeds (except walrus) that are sick, injured, in distress, or dead.

Data collected from stranded and rehabilitated marine mammals provides valuable information on the biology, physiology, and disease risks of those species, and the lessons learned with species from stable populations can greatly help conservation of threatened or endangered species. For some species, the only information available about its biology and natural history has been gained from stranded specimens. Data collected from live or dead stranded animals can also provide important information regarding human impacts on marine mammals such as interactions between marine mammals and fisheries, vessels, marine debris, or the effects of pollution (oil spills, contaminants, and heavy metals).

Thanks to our Stranding Network partners for the valuable work that they do.

How to Report a Stranded Marine Mammal

If you come across a stranded marine mammal, remain a safe and legal distance from the animal. Please report the animal to the 24/7 hotline 866-755-6622.

The most important information to collect is the date, location of stranding (including latitude and longitude), number of animals, whether the animal is alive or dead, and species, if known.

Questions?

Media: Contact Jennifer Goebel, Regional Office, 978-281-9175