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Small Cetacean Entanglement Response Best Practices
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2022
[PDF-2.49 MB]
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Description:Entanglement in, hooking by, and ingestion of, fishing gear and marine debris is a global problem affecting hundreds of marine species. Small cetaceans (i.e., porpoises, dolphins, and toothed species of whales, excluding sperm whales) can become entangled in active and derelict fishing gear and marine debris (e.g., plastic packing bands, large rubber bands, garbage, etc.), as well as ingest fishing gear and marine debris, causing injury and death. Responding to entangled animals is often difficult or impossible due to the inaccessibility of the animal, inability to relocate the animal, inclement weather, lack of experienced and trained personnel, human safety concerns, and more. PREVENTION is key to reducing entanglements and should be the first consideration for all those involved in entanglement response. Until the influx of entangling materials and debris into the marine environment is reduced, responders must do their best, within the constraints of human safety and logistical concerns, to disentangle small cetaceans that are injured due to human behavior. This document provides small cetacean entanglement response Best Practices based on currently used methods. Best Practices include preparation and planning for a response, necessary authorization and qualifications, human and animal safety, and risk assessment and mitigation. Although this document includes Best Practices, responders should never stop striving for innovative and new methods and training to increase the safety and success of an entanglement response. These protocols are meant as overall Best Practices and should not limit advances in techniques or animal welfare during responses.
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Rights Information:CC0 Public Domain
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