TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A Risso's dolphin was reported stranded on Pingtung County's Haikou Beach on Wednesday morning. 

The Coast Guard responded, transporting the distressed dolphin to National Cheng Kung University. However, the dolphin was in poor condition, and after a medical check, a decision was made to euthanize it, per CNA.

Wang Hao-wen (王浩文), director of the NCKU Marine Biology and Cetacean Research Center, said the 2.7-meter female dolphin was middle-aged and appeared emaciated. In addition to weak vital signs, her body appeared sunken with a deep 10 cm cut on her tail fin.

Risso's dolphins, sometimes referred to as gray dolphins or spotted dolphins, are commonly seen around Taiwan. Haikou Beach experiences an average of one stranding per year, with the recent incident being the first of the year.

Wang advised the public to refrain from pushing a stranded dolphin back into the sea, as 95% of strandings are due to poor health. Thus, veterinary assistance is often required before returning to the ocean.

The Coast Guard recommends that the public observe the following recommendations when encountering a stranded dolphin. This includes straightening the dolphin with the dorsal fin pointing to the sky, moisturizing with seawater, and recording breaths and heartbeats.

As for what not to do, avoid exposure to the wind and sun, do not stand too close to their head or tail, do not push or pull them, and avoid making noise. The public is also encouraged to dial the Coast Guard 118 hotline for immediate assistance.