Baby Dolphin Rescued After Stranded on Florida Beach

A young dolphin calf, approximately two months old, was discovered stranded on a beach south of the New Smyrna Jetty earlier this week. The discovery prompted a collaborative rescue effort involving concerned citizens and local authorities. Wildlife photographer Shelley Lynch was alerted to the stranded calf and contacted the Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute. Following guidance from the institute, Lynch and others carefully moved the dolphin from the water. Ocean Rescue lifeguards and beachgoers then provided care until a specialized team from SeaWorld Hubbs arrived. Upon arrival, the SeaWorld Hubbs team assessed the calf, taking its vital signs and measuring it before transporting it to SeaWorld Orlando for intensive rehabilitation. While the dolphin is receiving continuous care, its condition is reported as critical, highlighting the fragility of its situation.