Photo: SSC Marine Mammal Rescue
HAMPTON, N.H. (WBZNewsRadio) - Marine wildlife experts are trying to figure out how a young striped dolphin ended up beached on the shores of Hampton Beach, especially since it's the first time the rescue team at the Seacoast Science Center has ever seen the species in it's 14 year history.
Officials at the Science Center discovered the young female Friday, July 14, on the beach. The animal had no visible injuries and officials are awaiting results from a necropsy to help figure out what may have lead to the stranding and death of the mammal.
"This response was especially unique as striped dolphins are a deep-water species that prefers temperate and tropical regions. These highly social animals are mainly found in offshore waters located over continental shelves, traveling in large pods of 20-100 individuals." The Center wrote in a release. "Although striped dolphins are some of the most abundant dolphins in the world, they are not considered resident species here in New England. Striped dolphins will occasionally venture to our NH coasts during the summer months when the waters are warmer, however, seeing a striped dolphin stranded is uncommon for this species."
Officials are reminding the public if you see a dolphin, whale, seal or porpoise on the beach, stay at least 150 feet away and call the local authorities.
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