TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A rough-toothed dolphin was rescued and released off Magong, Penghu County, on Tuesday after becoming stranded in shallow waters near the south breakwater of Suogang Fishing Port.
The Penghu County Agriculture and Fisheries Bureau said the dolphin, measuring about 2 meters long, appeared to have become disoriented and entered shallow water, where prolonged exposure could have led to heat stress because the species typically inhabits warm, deep offshore waters, per UDN.
The Coast Guard received a report of the stranded dolphin at about 7 a.m. and immediately dispatched officers to the scene. Responders continuously poured water over the animal to keep it hydrated and prevent overheating while notifying the Ocean Conservation Administration and other agencies to assist with the rescue.
Veterinarians examined the dolphin and found it to be in generally good health, with only minor abrasions and no significant external injuries. Officials determined that releasing the animal back into the ocean was the best course of action.
Resident Li Ting-an (李庭安) volunteered his recreational boat to transport the dolphin into deeper waters. The release operation was completed successfully at about 9 a.m., allowing the animal to return to its natural habitat, per UDN.
The rough-toothed dolphin is recognizable by its streamlined body, tall sickle-shaped dorsal fin, long protruding snout, white lips and chin, and teeth marked with distinctive longitudinal grooves, from which the species gets its name.
According to the OCA, rough-toothed dolphins are found in tropical and temperate waters worldwide. Adults can reach up to 2.6 meters in length and weigh about 160 kg. Officials believe the dolphin may have entered the shallows while seeking shelter from rough seas before becoming stranded.
