18/08/2026
π WHY DOES HM COASTGUARD ATTEND DEAD PORPOISESβοΈ
Ever wondered why you might see HM Coastguard attending a deceased porpoise, dolphin or whale?
It might seem unusual β after all, the animal has sadly already died β but thereβs actually a very good reason.
π FISHES ROYAL
Whales, dolphins, porpoises and sturgeon are classed as Fishes Royal under a historic Royal Prerogative.
Today, the Receiver of Wreck, within HM Coastguard, has responsibility for these animals when they are found stranded around the UK.
So a report of a deceased porpoise isn't simply a case of removing an animal from the beach.
Coastguard may be tasked to:
π Locate and identify the animal
πΈ Photograph and document it
π Record measurements and condition
β Consider any risks to people or vessels
π Notify and liaise with the appropriate authorities and marine-mammal specialists
π¬ Support the collection of information that can contribute to scientific research
π¬ WHAT IF IT'S ALIVE?
A live stranding is very different.
Please DO NOT try to push, drag or tow a stranded porpoise back into the sea.
The animal may be sick, injured, exhausted or otherwise in distress, and attempting to refloat it without the right advice could make things worse.
Our response can include specialist assistance too.
Within our Coastguard Rescue Team, we have three Coastguard Rescue Officers who are also trained British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) medics.
This means that, where appropriate, we can have Coastguard responders attending alongside specialist marine-mammal expertise, helping assess the situation and provide the right care while further assistance is coordinated.
π« IF YOU FIND A STRANDED CETACEAN:
β Don't touch it
β Don't attempt to move it
β Don't try to refloat it
β Keep children and dogs away
β Don't attempt to remove anything from it
β
Keep a safe distance
β
Note the exact location
β
Take photographs from a safe distance if safe to do so
β
Report it and follow the advice of the responding professionals
Please remember: even when an animal looks harmless, a stranded marine mammal can present risks to both you and the animal.
π¬ Keep your distance. Report it. Let the professionals take care of the rest.
π HM COASTGUARD β HERE TO HELP OUR COASTAL COMMUNITIES, PEOPLE AND MARINE ENVIRONMENT.