Stranded striped dolphin found on Susak
On Tuesday, 17th January 2012. Blue World researchers were informed of a dead dolphin, found floating in the harbour of Susak. Upon arrival at the scene, we found out it was an adult male striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba). External examination showed no injuries that might indicate the cause of death. However, during sampling of skin and blubber unusualy strong bleeding occurred. The body was sent to the local veterinary service for further examination to find cause of death. We are currently waiting for the report.
Striped dolphins inhabit open seas, deeper than 200m, so their occurrance in shallow northern Adriatic is highly unusual. However, we are having more and more reports of sightings of this species in recent years. In December there was a case of live stranding of a striped dolphin in Kaštela, near Split.
Research of dolphins in the wild is very difficult, so every report of a stranded dolphin provides invaluable data for research. This helps us find out more about the biology and ecology of these protected species. If you find stranded dolphin,please inform us by phone: +38551604666 or e-mail: infoATblue-world.org (replace AT with @).
