Kategorie: News
One of the World’s Most Endangered Dolphin Species, Embarks on a Path to Recovery
Rio Grande, Brazil – The critically endangered La Plata dolphin (Pontoporia blainvillei - also called Fransicana dolphin) is one of the world’s most threatened small cetaceans, making every rescue a vital step toward securing the future of the species. On November 9, 2024, a neonate female Franciscana dolphin was found stranded on La Coronilla beach, Uruguay. Just a few days old and in critical condition, she was named Bita and has since become a symbol of resilience and conservation success.
Saving stranded Franciscana dolphins is a critical process not only for the survival of this species but also for small cetaceans in general. Each rehabilitation is a valuable learning experience, providing critical insights into care protocols, health management, and behavioral assessments that can be applied to other small cetacean species. These efforts contribute to a broader understanding of conservation strategies and help refine techniques for future interventions.
Initial Treatment
Bita received her initial treatment at Karumbé, a renowned rehabilitation center in Uruguay, particularly known for its work with sea turtles. From the outset, the Alliance for Franciscana Dolphin Conservation Research, Rescue, and Rehabilitation (AFCR3) coordinated the comprehensive rehabilitation process, bringing together leading experts, veterinarians, and volunteers from across South America. The efforts were further supported by Yaqu Pacha - Uruguay and RENACE, whose expertise and dedication played a crucial role in ensuring Bita received the critical care she needed during these early stages of her recovery.
Expert-Led Care and International Collaboration
Dr. Aricia Duarte Benvenuto (University of São Paulo, Brazil) and Dr. Jenny Meegan (National Marine Mammal Foundation, USA) led Bita's rehabilitation efforts. Nearly 20 dedicated volunteers, primarily from Uruguay but also from Brazil and Argentina, supported the veterinarians in providing round-the-clock care.
After weeks of intensive support, Bita was transported to CRAM-FURG, a rehabilitation center in Rio Grande, Brazil, renowned for its expertise in marine mammal rehabilitation. The seven-hour journey was carried out with meticulous planning, ensuring Bita’s safety and comfort. Traveling in a specially designed pool with water, Bita remained calm throughout the transport, thanks to the careful handling of the team.
The Alliance for Franciscana Dolphin Conservation brought in Dr. Kyle Ross, an experienced veterinarian specializing in dolphin transport, from the National Marine Mammal Foundation (NMMF). With the generous support of NMMF and Dolphin Quest, Dr. Ross worked alongside Dr. Benvenuto to oversee Bita’s wellbeing during the journey. Throughout the transport, Dr. Jenny Meegan from the USA remained in continuous contact with Dr. Duarte Benvenuto and Dr. Ross, with all three leading and coordinating the entire process to ensure Bita's safety and care.
Specialized Care for a Delicate Dolphin
Bita’s rehabilitation requires highly specialized and continuous care, as neonate dolphins are extremely fragile. She receives hourly feedings of a customized dolphin Zoologic milk formula, administered through both tube feeding and via bottle and nipple. This ensures she gets the necessary nutrients for her growth and recovery. Additionally, she is closely monitored 24/7 by the veterinary team and volunteers to track her hydration, behavior, and overall health. This dedicated attention is crucial to giving Bita the best chance at survival and recovery.
A Tremendous Learning Experience
As head veterinarian, Dr. Jenny Meegan shared her reflections on Bita´s journey:
"I have been here from the beginning, when we started developing the protocols for rehabilitating neonate Franciscana dolphins. Since then, many trials of rehabilitation have been undertaken, and it is incredibly rewarding to see that our efforts were not in vain. Bita is a perfect example of why we need to analyze each case step-by-step in order to refine our procedures and improve our chances of success. Every case teaches us something new, helping us pave the way for better outcomes in the future. It has been amazing getting to know and learn from Bita. She is so strong and resilient and we are so grateful to her for this experience".
Reflecting on the process, Dr. Aricia Duarte Benvenuto remarked:
"It has been a tremendous experience to spend 24 hours a day with Bita, providing her the care she needs. Each step of her rehabilitation has not only been rewarding but also an invaluable learning opportunity for the future. The knowledge gained from her care will greatly enhance our ability to help other stranded dolphins and improve conservation efforts for this critically endangered species."
A New Chapter at CRAM-FURG
Now safely at her new home at CRAM-FURG, Bita will continue to receive 24/7 care from a dedicated team of veterinarians and volunteers. This marks a significant milestone in her recovery journey, which has been made possible through the collaboration of multiple organizations.
The Alliance for Franciscana Dolphin Conservation, under the guidance of YAQU PACHA, Nuremberg Zoo, NMMF, and Dolphin Quest, has been instrumental in each phase of Bita’s rescue and rehabilitation. These organizations are now working together to design a long-term plan for her future, exploring options that will prioritize her wellbeing and contribute to broader efforts to conserve the Franciscana dolphin species.
Dr. Lauro Barcelos, Director of CRAM-FURG, expressed his thoughts on Bita’s rehabilitation:
"We are honored to be part of the Alliance for Franciscana Dolphin Conservation Research, Rescue and Rehabilitation and to take on the next chapter in Bita’s recovery. The exceptional work started by Karumbé has laid the groundwork for her care, and we are fully committed to continuing this great effort here at CRAM-FURG. It is a privilege to contribute to the conservation of the Franciscana."
Institutional Support
The successful transport was made possible thanks to the invaluable support of Uruguay's National Directorate of Aquatic Resources, the Ministry of Environment, and Brazil's IBAMA, ICMBio, MAPA and Receita Federal. Their exceptional efforts in expediting the necessary documentation were instrumental, and their dedication is truly commendable.
A Collaborative Achievement
Speaking on behalf of the entire Alliance, Dr. Lorenzo von Fersen (YAQU PACHA and Nuremberg Zoo) emphasized the significance of Bita's journey:
"This is a unique moment for the Alliance, and it demonstrates that perseverance, scientifically sound approaches, and most importantly, the cooperation between our members and their immense dedication are the keys to success. We are deeply thankful for the great enthusiasm and willingness to help shown by everyone involved. Bita’s case proves that together, we can achieve extraordinary outcomes for the conservation of this critically endangered species."
We are keeping our fingers crossed for little Bita and wish her all the best on her journey. Thanks to the rescuers and the caregivers – great job. As soon as we hear anything new about Bita, we will post it here.