Dolphin calf's treatment continues at Mote

A 90-pound bottlenose dolphin calf rescued on a sandbar in the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island continues to recover at Mote Marine’s Dolphin and Whale Hospital.

According to Mote’s website, the dolphin, nicknamed “Taz,” is gaining weight, but a recent blood test shows signs of an infection. Taz is being treated with antibiotics and is eating every two hours while being monitored around the clock by Mote staff.

Taz arrived Jan. 13, after 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.

Contact Robin Hartill at [email protected].