Bottlenose dolphin calf brought to Mote

A bottlenose dolphin calf arrived at Mote Marine Laboratory’s Dolphin and Whale Hospital yesterday afternoon following its rescue in the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge in Sanibel Island.

The 55-inch, 90-pound dolphin was stranded in shallow water along a sandbar.

Nicknamed “Taz,” the dolphin is estimated to be as young as six months. Rescuers found the dolphin separated from its mother. Bottlenose dolphins typically stay with their mothers until they are between 3 and 6 years old and depend on them for food, protection and to learn how to feed independently and safely navigate their environment.

The dolphin received fluids and a basic medical exam at Mote and is currently swimming on his own. Mote staff is feeding the dolphin a special formula designed for bottlenose calves. Once stabilized, Taz will receive a more thorough veterinary examination.

Contact Robin Hartill at [email protected].