Hero Orkney locals save three beached dolphins

Three locals did an "amazing job" administering first aid before medics arrived on the scene.

By Graham Fleming

July 31 2024, 10:23 am

The three locals did a "fabulous" job according to medics. Image: BDMLR Orkney

Hero Orkney residents helped rescue three stranded dolphins.

The Risso’s dolphins were washed up on the Bay of Turquoy near Westray on Friday night.

However, it was a race to ensure their survival as animal medics based on mainland Orkney were unlikely to arrive in time to save them.

The dolphins were in danger after being stranded. Image: BDMLR Orkney

The seaborn mammals were re-floated. Image: BDMLR Orkney

Instead, three hero locals, who have not been named, followed instructions from British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) medics.

They administered basic first aid to the dolphins and helped maintain their condition until the experts arrived.

This involved ensuring the animals were kept upright – making it easier for them to breathe – and keeping them wet with sheets so their skin didn’t dry out and overheat.

The medics, ferried by RNLI Kirkwall, then refloated the dolphins into deeper water.

Orkney medics and locals did a ‘fabulous job’

A social media post, published on Saturday, read: “BDMLR Orkney were alerted to three Risso’s dolphins caught in the Bay of Tuquoy, Westray on Friday evening.

“With no medics based in Westray, advice was given to residents who did an amazing job administering first aid to the dolphins whilst a team was mobilised and sent over from mainland Orkney.

“On arrival, the animals were fully assessed and found to be in a moderate condition.

The locals did a “fabulous job” according to medics. Image: BDMLR Orkney

Locals were forced to give first aid to the dolphins. Image: BDMLR Orkney

“As they had stranded upright and local residents had done such a great job of administering first aid, a re-float was a viable option.

“Medics and residents did a fabulous job getting the animals back in the water and out to sea.

“A check of the area this morning has found no sign of the dolphins so it is hoped that they have successfully headed out to deeper water.”

‘Happy ending’ for stranded dolphins

BDMLR Orkney also thanked RNLI Kirkwall for transporting them to the rural location where the dolphins were stranded.

“BDMLR would like to thank RLNI Kirkwall for providing transport to Westray, Westray Coastguard team for safety support and to all the Westray folk who assisted both on the beach and with the provision of accommodation and equipment.

“Once again, an amazing community response with a very happy ending.

“Thank you!”