A stranded rough-toothed dolphin, rescued and taken to the Ocean Park Friday last night, is under care and observation by the Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) and the Ocean Park.

AFCD's Senior Marine Conservation Officer Joseph Sham said the male dolphin measured 2.1

meters and weighed 75 kilograms. It was underweight and looked weak.

The AFCD sought the assistance of the rescue team of the Ocean Park headed by Chief Veterinarian Derek Spielman who are prepared to handle stranded dolphins of this nature. The team examined the rough-toothed dolphin and took blood and blowhole samples.

Spielman said the blood test of the dolphin looked normal and there was no sign of dehydration. The animal was clearly ill but an exact diagnosis of its illness has yet to be established. The team will continue to give antibiotics and multi vitamins to increase its strength.

Sham said, "we, together with the Ocean Park, will keep the dolphin under close observation for a few days before deciding on the follow-up actions."

The dolphin was found stranded at Lo Tik Wan, Lamma Island Friday afternoon. The AFCD and dolphin experts tried to take the dolphin back to deeper water but the dolphin swam back to the shore. It was later decided to take the dolphin to the Ocean Park for a detailed examination and care.

Rough-toothed dolphins are not commonly found in Hong Kong. They usually

live in groups in tropical and subtropical waters.

Source: Xinhua