The Galician Marine Animal Rescue Network, supported by the Ministry of Environment, is implementing innovative tools to improve the identification and protection of whales, dolphins, and other distressed animals along the coast.
This initiative is made possible by the Arqui-Var project, developed this year by the Coordinating Center for Marine Mammal Studies (Cemma), an organization founded in 1992, which focuses on the welfare of whales, dolphins, turtles, and other marine species along the Galician coast.
With a budget of over 22,000 euros, of which 20,000 euros were provided by the European Union and Xunta de Galicia, the project aims to improve the photo-identification archive of the Animal Rescue Network and train field staff in image capture for this purpose.
The project also promotes the use of new technologies and raises awareness about the impact of plastic waste on marine fauna.
Additionally, ten stretchers have been provided to assist marine mammals stranded along the Galician coast.
Thanks to the Group of Local Actions for the Fishing Sector (GALP) Ría de Vigo-A Guarda, Arqui-Var ensures the preservation of a visual archive of rescues and observations, creating a comprehensive database that includes materials gathered since 1990.
The project has also led to the acquisition of two cameras for further documentation of interactions with marine mammals.
As winter approaches, the number of stranded sea lions is increasing due to harsh Atlantic and Cantabrian storms. Over the past fifty years, cases of gray seals and other species have been recorded in Galicia.
Young gray seals, typically born in the British Isles, are often found exhausted and seeking shelter on the beaches of Galicia during this time.
While encountering a seal may seem rare, Cemma emphasizes that this is not unusual, especially in winter. It’s important to maintain a safe distance, avoid disturbing the animal, and report it to Cemma or emergency services.
Not all stranded animals require rescue; only those that are injured or exhibiting abnormal behavior should receive assistance. Young seals, in particular, may need help, as they are often inexperienced and vulnerable.
Cemma is focused on eliminating anthropogenic factors that contribute to the stranding of these animals, including direct impact, bycatch, and plastic ingestion. Their intensive care department plays a crucial role in rehabilitating seals before their release back into the ocean.