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Experts Still Trying To Save Dolphin Stranded On Siesta Key

News Channel 8 file photo by MICHAEL EGGER

Ginger was found stranded at Siesta Key on Dec. 16. She's recovering from pneumonia at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium.

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The Associated Press

Published: December 26, 2008

SARASOTA - Doctors at the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium are still trying to save a 3-year-old Atlantic bottlenose dolphin found stranded Dec. 16 on Siesta Key.

The dolphin was diagnosed with pneumonia.

Nicknamed "Ginger" by Mote staff in honor of the holiday season, she remains in critical condition, though she is swimming on her own and is able to eat some live fish.

When Ginger arrived at Mote's Dolphin and Whale Hospital, blood and other samples were taken to determine whether she had an infection or other problem. Staff also weighed and measured her. She is just over 7 feet long and weighs 271 pounds, which is a little less than normal.

Mote researchers immediately recognized the female. She is the third generation of a family of dolphins living in Sarasota Bay tracked by Mote in partnership with the Chicago Zoological Society. The study of dolphins in Sarasota Bay dates back 39 years, making it the longest study of its kind.

"We've known it from the time it was born," said Randy Wells on the day the dolphin was found. Wells oversees Mote's dolphin study program. "It has a new sibling that was born this summer to its mother. Her mom is 13 years old, and her grandmother is 49 years old. In fact, the grandmother of this animal is one we've known since August of 1975."

According to Mote, if you encounter a stranded marine mammal:

•Do not push it back in the water.

•In Sarasota and Manatee counties, contact Mote Marine Laboratory's Stranding Investigations Program at (941) 988-0212. In Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 1-888-404-3922.

•Protect the animal from direct sunlight and keep skin moist with towels, making sure to keep the blowhole free of sand and debris.

•Keep pets away and avoid excessive noise or handling.

•Stay clear of the mouth and tail. Wild animals are strong.

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