A dolphin has died after stranding near the East Pier in Dun Laoghaire.
The incident began earlier on Sunday (April 26th). when the Irish Coast Guard received reports of a stranded dolphin at Sandycove Strand.
Dun Laoghaire RNLI, Dublin Zoo and veterinary teams responded to the scene.
Following an on-site assessment, the dolphin was deemed fit for refloating.
“We were quite hopeful,” a responder said, noting the animal showed signs of movement during the rescue.
Blood samples were taken and pain relief administered before the dolphin was moved offshore.
It was released in deeper water but later restranded on rocks near the East Pier.
RNLI crews attended again and brought the animal ashore.
Despite further efforts, the dolphin later died.
A post-mortem examination is expected to determine the cause of death.
Possible causes include disorientation linked to echolocation, shallow water navigation issues or underlying disease.
Responders said the findings would contribute to wider marine research.
