With summer here, many of us will be heading out to enjoy the stunning British coastline. But did you know that our shores stretch across a massive 19,000 miles? It is a huge area and home to an incredible variety of marine life.
Sadly, these animals often find themselves in distress. That is where British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) steps in. Formed back in 1988, this dedicated charity has grown into a vital national network. Last year alone, their hotline took a record-breaking 5,000 calls.
But the charity cannot be everywhere at once. They rely heavily on beachgoers to be their eyes and ears on the ground. If you spot a marine animal that looks injured, tangled, or stranded, you can make a massive difference by taking a few simple steps.
First, try to get an accurate identification of the species and its size. Snapping a quick photo or video on your phone is incredibly helpful for the team. Next, check the area for any obvious threats. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is simply stand back, watch the animal’s behaviour, and keep other people and dogs away. Never attempt to move or drag a stranded animal.
Every year, the BDMLR trains over 1,000 volunteer Marine Mammal Medics. They also look after specialised equipment, like whale refloatation pontoons and dedicated seal hospitals, ensuring that expert help is always ready.
If you stumble across a marine animal in trouble during your next coastal walk, you can reach the rescue hotline 24 hours a day on 01825 765546.
