Common Dolphin Rescued After Stranding in Mayo

There was a dramatic and heartwarming rescue on the River Moy this week as a common dolphin was guided toward the open Atlantic after becoming stranded upstream in Ballina, County Mayo.

The dolphin had swum as far as the SS Crete Boom, a well-known river landmark, and was spotted stranded on a sandbar during low tide.

Concerned locals contacted the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) emergency hotline, triggering a swift and coordinated response from both citizens and emergency services.

Common dolphins are usually found in deeper offshore waters and rarely venture into river systems.

According to the IWDG, Garda Seanie Campbell played a pivotal role, quickly arriving on scene and liaising with the IWDG. He helped organise the rescue and ensured that the correct lifting techniques were used to minimise stress and injury to the dolphin. Using a tarp, the team gently moved the dolphin into deeper water, where a small boat helped guide it downstream.

Those involved in the rescue included Rút Ní Labhraithrín, Edel, Rory McStay, John Armstrong, Michael Cuffe, Declan Hennigan, and Micheál O’Dowd.

The dolphin was last seen swimming steadily downstream — hopefully making its way back to its natural ocean habitat.

The IWDG praised the community’s response and reminded the public to call their emergency line on 097 28118 if they spot a stranded dolphin. They also urged people not to drag dolphins by the fins or tail, and to keep the area quiet and calm.

The organisation is currently recruiting new volunteers in Killala, Ballina, and Enniscrone to join its Live Stranding Network. A training course will be held on July 5th in Killala Bay for anyone interested in learning how to assist with future rescues.