David Schofield, of the National Aquarium in Baltimore, presented an overview of the stranded animal response programs in Maryland, marine mammal behavior, and marine mammal harassment and law enforcement issues.
Marine mammals are fragile indicator species.
By understanding more about these animals we conserve other species and ensure the health of the ocean environment. Unfortunately, the number of marine mammals that strand each year is increasing. Even more alarming is the fact that the majority of these animals are washing ashore dead or dying due to human related activities such as boat strikes, propeller slashings, serious illness from contaminated bait, plastic ingestion, gear entanglement, or from being shot. Public awareness is a key factor in effectively addressing this problem. Most people who engage in these illegal activities do not realize that they are placing the dolphins and themselves at risk.