Marine Mammal Stranding

See a stranded marine mammal? Call right away.

If you see an injured, stranded, or deceased dolphin, whale, or seal — do not approach or push it back into the water.

Keep people and pets at a distance, note the exact location, and call the stranding hotline immediately. Trained responders will handle the animal.

24/7 Stranding Hotline

910.515.7354

UNCW Marine Mammal Stranding Program

Manatee Sightings

Spotted a manatee?

Manatees are an endangered species and only occasional visitors to North Carolina waters in the warmer months. Every sighting helps UNCW researchers track their movements. If the animal appears injured, entangled, or in distress, call the stranding hotline above first.

Otherwise, please report healthy, free-swimming manatees directly to UNCW's manatee sighting program — note the date, time, location, and number of animals, and include photos or video if you can capture them safely.

Report a manatee sighting

About the program

The Marine Mammal Stranding Program at the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) is the federally authorized responder for stranded cetaceans and pinnipeds along the southern North Carolina coast — including Brunswick and New Hanover Counties.

Their team investigates strandings to better understand the health, biology, and threats facing local marine mammal populations, and trains the next generation of marine scientists through hands-on response work.

What to do if you see a stranded animal

Call the hotline: 910.515.7354
Note the exact location (street, beach access number, GPS if possible)
Stay at least 50 yards away — do not touch, feed, or pour water on the animal
Keep dogs leashed and other people back
If safe, take photos from a distance to share with responders
Wait for trained responders if possible, or follow their instructions by phone

Learn more

UNCW Marine Mammal Stranding Program