November 2023

With autumn’s changes come the increased chance of marine mammals stranding along the Outer Banks. Nearly every time, these whales, dolphins and porpoises are sick, injured or already deceased.


First responders from Jennette’s Pier and the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island attempt to help these animals. Calls come in on the Outer Banks Marine Mammal Stranding Network hotline, (252) 455-9654.


Last month, we responded to a bottlenose dolphin in Kitty Hawk and Risso’s dolphin in Corolla. After the Risso’s dolphin passed, Pier Director Mike Remige transported it back to a National Park Service facility in South Nags Head.

But first, Karen Clark requested that the animal be trucked by Water’s Edge Village Schoolhouse for students to view. With wide eyes, they peppered Remige with questions.

The Risso’s dolphin, also known as a grampus, was subsequently taken for necropsy at North Carolina State University’s Center for Marine Sciences and Technology in Morehead City.


Clark is the Community Science Specialist for the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission and handles strandings on the northern beaches.


Marina Doshkov has taken over the role of Marine Mammal Stranding Coordinator for the Aquariums and her husband, Paul, has a similar role for the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and National Park Service. Call (252) 216-6892.

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