Marine Mammal Stranding Network
The San Juan Islands Marine Mammal Stranding Network is a program of The Whale Museum, authorized by the National Marine Fisheries Service since 1981.
Network responders investigate live and dead stranded marine mammals, collect data, and decide the suitable response. Some live animals are transported to Wolf Hollow Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Dead animals are studied by necropsies conducted at the University of Washington Friday Harbor Labs by scientists from The Whale Museum and the SeaDoc Society. From 2003-06 and 2008-09, these efforts were largely funded by the John H. Prescott Marine Mammal Rescue Assistance Grant Program.
By working with local residents and visitors to the San Juan Islands who, by circumstance, encounter a dead or injured marine mammal, we are providing a long-lasting educational experience that builds a stewardship ethic in those it touches. As research, it provides an invaluable scientific monitor on the health of the San Juan Islands' marine mammal population and the ecosystem that supports it.
Visit these archived news stories about the Marine Mammal Stranding Network's biggest stranding:
To report sightings or strandings, call the Hotline (800) 562-8832 or send an email to: hotline@whalemuseum.org.
