Dolphin Washed Ashore in Tel Aviv Returned to Sea, Experts Warn Against Intervention

A dolphin washed ashore at Jerusalem Beach in Tel Aviv on Tuesday morning and was subsequently returned to the water by citizens and lifeguards present at the scene. However, experts from the Israel Nature and Parks Authority and the Delphis organization caution that the dolphin may be sick or injured, and returning it to the sea could endanger its life.

Researchers from Delphis identified the dolphin as a striped dolphin, a species that inhabits deep waters. This relatively small dolphin, typically found in large pods, is the most common dolphin species in the Mediterranean Sea. Unfortunately, it also holds the unfortunate record for the highest number of live strandings documented in Israel.

According to researchers, there is a high probability that the dolphin will return to shore. Therefore, the Nature and Parks Authority urges the public to remain vigilant and not attempt to return the dolphin to the water if it is found on the beach again. The reason for this directive is that a stranded dolphin may be ill or injured, and returning it to the sea without examination and treatment could lead to drowning.

In such cases, the public is instructed to immediately contact the Nature and Parks Authority hotline at *3639 or the Delphis organization at 052-3571193 or 050-3225227. While awaiting professional assistance, the public is advised not to move the dolphin or return it to the water. Instead, they should keep onlookers and dogs away, maintain quiet, and ensure the dolphin's blowhole is clear. The dolphin should be kept wet with seawater, but its dorsal fin, side fins, tail, and blowhole should not be covered. It should be kept upright on its belly, and under no circumstances should it be lifted or pulled by its tail or fins, as this could cause severe injury. The public should stay with the animal, keep it moist and protected, and wait for the professional team to arrive.