Why do marine animals come ashore?
Marine animals come ashore for many reasons. For some, the behavior is normal. Seals haul out as part of their daily routine to rest, bask in the sun, molt or care for their young. Determining whether an animal is compromised is critical in making a responsible decision about whether or not to intervene. Many times, a marine mammal on shore is a sign that something is wrong with the animal. This is typically the case for whales, dolphins and porpoises. Young marine mammals sometimes have difficulty developing effective foraging skills, and once weakened by malnutrition, are susceptible to infections that further challenge their health. Parasites that may normally be tolerated gain an edge and cause significant organ damage. Offshore dolphins and whales unfamiliar with coastlines and tides may become disoriented and trapped, often when sea conditions are rough. The circumstances leading to stranding may be complex and difficult to establish with certainty in any given event.
