Rare Spinner Dolphin Rescued After Stranding on Patong Beach

A young spinner dolphin was rescued after washing ashore alive on Patong Beach, with marine authorities in Phuket launching an emergency operation to save the rare animal.

The rescue involved coordinated efforts between beach security personnel, the Kusoldharm Foundation, and the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) Upper Andaman Sea Center.

According to the DMCR, the stranded dolphin was a juvenile female measuring 158 centimeters in length and weighing about 25 kilograms. Veterinary specialists found the animal in poor condition, with a Body Condition Score of 2 out of 5, indicating that it was underweight. The dolphin was also suffering from dehydration, low blood sugar, and was unable to swim properly.

Rescuers reported that the animal was floating on its side and showing signs of muscle stiffness, suggesting it was in serious distress.

After receiving the report from beach security staff, officials transported the dolphin to the Siritharn Rare Marine Animal Rescue Center, where veterinarians immediately began emergency treatment. The dolphin remains under continuous monitoring, with veterinary teams providing round-the-clock care to improve its chances of recovery.

Marine officials stressed that rapid intervention is essential when stranded marine mammals are discovered, particularly vulnerable species such as spinner dolphins, which are well known for their agility and spectacular leaps in the wild.

Authorities also praised the quick response of local beach personnel, noting that the timely report played a key role in the successful rescue.