Mystic Aquarium Rescues and Releases Stranded Dolphin on Block Island

MYSTIC, CT (August 8, 2026) -- A stranded dolphin found on Block Island has been successfully rescued, medically evaluated, and returned to the ocean following a collaborative response involving Mystic Aquarium, the Block Island Marine Institute (BIMI), and members of the local community.

The dolphin was first spotted approximately two days ago, roughly two miles into a cove in Block Island’s Great Salt Pond. Staff from BIMI, who are trained first responders for Mystic Aquarium’s Animal Rescue Program, monitored the animal as it remained in the area before the dolphin eventually moved into shallow water and stranded on the beach.

Mystic Aquarium's Animal Rescue team responded first thing in the morning to assess the dolphin. Following a thorough veterinary examination, including a physical evaluation, on-scene ultrasound, and rapid blood tests, the dolphin was found to be in healthy condition and stable enough to be safely relocated and returned to the wild.

With help from members of the Block Island community, the dolphin was safely carried back out to sea and released.

Successful releases of stranded dolphins are relatively rare, as dolphins that strand in Mystic Aquarium’s coverage area are often experiencing illness or other underlying health conditions that prevent them from successfully returning to the wild. This rescue marks the first successful dolphin release from a stranding on Block Island in decades.

“This was an incredible example of what can happen when a community comes together to respond to a marine animal in need,” said Sarah Callan, Manager of Mystic Aquarium’s Animal Rescue Program. “The dolphin was fortunate to be spotted and monitored by our partners and first responders, and our team was able to quickly assess its condition and determine that it was healthy enough to return to the ocean. A successful release like this is a special outcome for our rescue team and everyone who played a role in making it possible.”

Mystic Aquarium extends its appreciation to the Block Island Marine Institute and the Block Island community for their vigilance and assistance throughout the response. Special thanks are also extended to John Swienton from Twin Maples Bait and Boat for his assistance, and to the Roosa Foundation for supporting travel to Block Island for Mystic Aquarium’s Animal Rescue Program team.

The successful response underscores the importance of reporting stranded or distressed marine animals to trained responders. Members of the public should maintain a safe distance from stranded marine animals and contact local authorities or trained marine mammal responders rather than attempting to return an animal to the water themselves.

Mystic Aquarium's Animal Rescue Program responds to marine animals in distress along more than 1,000 miles of the Northeast coastline, working with partners and communities to rescue, rehabilitate, and return animals to the wild whenever possible. Learn more about Mystic Aquarium’s Animal Rescue Program at mysticaquarium.org/animal-rescue.