Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) —  A rough-toothed dolphin that stranded on a Gulf Shores beach was euthanized after experts determined it was in poor health. The animal was found alive near Sea and Suds, prompting a coordinated emergency response. Multiple local agencies and marine specialists assessed the situation. Officials said the decision was made to prevent further suffering.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, June 3, with the Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s Alabama Marine Mammal Stranding Network leading the response. The group is the only federally permitted marine mammal response network in Alabama. Teams from Orange Beach Coastal Resources, Gulf Shores Police Department, Gulf State Park, and Gulf Shores Fire Rescue also assisted.

The dolphin was transported for a full evaluation by a veterinarian and marine mammal experts. After the assessment, with approval from NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service, responders determined that euthanasia was the most humane option.

“When a live dolphin strands on the beach, especially an offshore species such as the rough-toothed dolphin, the prognosis is always guarded,” ALMMSN Stranding Coordinator Mackenzie Russell said. “These animals strand for a reason, usually illness or injury, and are often in poor health. In these cases, humane euthanasia is the best and most compassionate outcome for the stranded animal.”

Rough-toothed dolphins typically inhabit deep tropical waters and are rarely seen near shore. They travel in tight groups of about 10 to 20 animals. The species is protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which limits human interaction and ensures proper handling during strandings.

Officials encourage the public to report stranded marine mammals to trained responders and to avoid direct contact with the animals.

Manatee Sighting Network: Track manatees in the northern Gulf of Mexico by reporting sightings via the Manatee Sighting Network site, emailing manatee@disl.org, or calling 1-866-493-5803. 

Marine Mammal Strandings: To report a stranded, injured, or dead marine mammal (such as a dolphin or whale), contact the stranding hotline at 1-877-WHALE-HELP (942-5343).