A Guide for Beach Visitors in Cornwall Amid Rising Dolphin Strandings

Published On: 29 March 2024Last Updated: 29 March 2024By CornishStuff

Now the Easter holidays are here, beachgoers in Cornwall are greeted with a mixed bag of news concerning marine life.

Polzeath Marine Conservation Group and Centre (PMCG) has provided critical information for those planning to visit the picturesque beaches of Cornwall, focusing on the delightful sightings of dolphins and whales, as well as addressing the concerning trend of marine mammal strandings.

Marine Life Thrives

The Cornwall coast has recently become a hotspot for witnessing the majestic beauty of dolphins and whales, drawing nature enthusiasts and families to its shores. These sightings represent a thriving marine ecosystem, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe these creatures in their natural habitat.

Rising Concerns Over Strandings

However, this positive note is tempered by alarming incidents of dolphin strandings on local beaches. Specifically, two recent cases have been reported: one on Monday, 25th March at Baby Bay, and another on Saturday, 23rd March at Daymer Bay. These events have sparked concern among conservationists and the local community alike.

Do’s and Don’ts for Beachgoers

In response to these strandings, the PMCG and The Wildlife Trust have issued vital advice for anyone who encounters a stranded marine mammal. The public is strongly advised not to touch or approach stranded animals. Such actions can cause additional stress to the animals and pose risks to humans. Instead, observers are encouraged to keep a safe distance, prevent others and pets from approaching, and immediately contact professional rescue services.

Support and Rescue Services

For live marine mammals in distress, the British Divers Marine Life Rescue and the Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP) offer a hotline for emergencies, manned by trained volunteers, including members from the PMCG. They provide a crucial rescue service, with the former also responsible for removing the stranded animals for autopsy to understand the causes behind these incidents.

In cases where the marine mammal is unfortunately found dead, the Cornwall Wildlife Trust, as the licensed recorder for all marine strandings in Cornwall, should be contacted. This allows for proper recording and investigation into the strandings, contributing to the overall effort to protect marine life.

A Hopeful Message for the Holidays

The PMCG ends its advisory with a hopeful message for a safe and joyful Easter for both visitors and marine inhabitants of Cornwall’s beaches. The emphasis on coexisting with and protecting the marine ecosystem reflects a broader commitment to ensuring the health and happiness of all creatures, big and small.

As Cornwall welcomes visitors to its stunning coastlines this Easter, the balance between enjoying the natural beauty and respecting the wildlife becomes more pertinent than ever. Through awareness and cooperation, beachgoers can contribute to a safer environment for marine life, ensuring that the wonders of Cornwall’s oceans can be appreciated by future generations.