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A mass stranding of white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus acutus) in Ireland: biological and pathological studies |
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| Authors: | E. Rogan J. R. Baker P. D. Jepson S. Berrow O. Kiely |
| Affiliation: | Department of Zoology, University College, Lee Maltings, Prospect Row, Cork, Ireland;Department of Veterinary Pathology, University of Liverpool, Veterinary Field Station, Leahurst, Neston, Wirral L64 7TE, U.K.;Veterinary Science Group, Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, U.K. |
| Abstract: | We give details of the biological and pathological findings in a mass stranding of 19 white-sided dolphins on the west coast of Ireland. The pod consisted of adults and calves; no juveniles were present. The calf of a recently parturient female was not found. The presence of small foetuses suggested that mating took place in late August or early September. The largest and oldest male was severely diseased but the remainder of the pod were in good health although some minor lesions were found. The site where the animals came ashore was compatible with the geomagnetic theory of mass strandings. |
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