An increasingly important role of the Aquariums over the years has been the rescue and care of stranded and injured marine mammals and sea turtles. Although in many cases an animal may be too severely injured or perhaps too large for the aquarium staff to manage, often they are simply exhausted or suffering from a minor injury which needs attention.

Measuring a beached humpback whale

In addition to sea turtles, dolphins, and whales which sometimes strand, harbor seals have also been seen in increasing numbers, possibly due to an expansion of their range to the south. Working with local veterinarians and animal care specialists, staff at the three Aquariums provide the necessary care and attention for some wounded or stranded sea turtles before releasing them back to the ocean.

 

Marine mammal response teams from the Virginia Aquarium and the University of North Carolina Wilmington address marine mammal strandings. Aquarium staff often assists with inital response efforts.

 

If you should spot a wounded or stranded animal when visiting the coast of North Carolina, please contact the North Carolina Aquariums,

the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries (252-726-7021) or

the National Marine Fisheries Service (252-728-3595).

If the animal is a marine mammal please call the emergency response pager: 910-254-5713