Mass stranding of rough-toothed dolphins in Far North, New Zealand
A pod of 25 rough-toothed dolphins stranded on a reef at Tauroa Point at the southern end of 90 Mile Beach, New Zealand’s Far North District on April 17, 2023. A stranding of this size for this species is unprecedented.
According to the country’s Department of Conservation (DOC), 10 dolphins were found dead upon the arrival of their staff. However, 15 dolphins were found alive and were safely guided back out to sea through water channels.
Rough-toothed dolphins are usually found in warmer tropical waters, DOC said.
“There have only been four previous records of strandings in New Zealand which included a stranding of four animals in south Marlborough in 1990.
“A stranding of this size for this species is unprecedented.”
References:
1 New Zealand’s Department of Conservation – April 17, 2023
Featured image: DOC
Commenting rules and guidelines
We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules:
We reserve the right to remove any comments that violate these rules. By commenting on our website, you agree to abide by these guidelines. Thank you for helping to create a positive and welcoming environment for all.