Tenerife’s Cabildo Enhances Marine Mammal Emergency Response with Stranding Simulation

The Cabildo of Tenerife has taken a significant step towards improving its emergency response capabilities for marine mammal incidents by organizing a comprehensive cetacean stranding simulation at El Médano beach. This initiative aims to ensure that various organizations are well-prepared to handle emergencies involving stranded cetaceans, which can pose challenges to both the animals and the local community.

Objectives of the Training Exercise

This simulation, meticulously coordinated by the Wildlife Recovery Centre (CRFS) of La Tahonilla, the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), and the Loro Parque Foundation, sought to provide essential training for multiple organizations involved in marine mammal rescue. The primary focus was on establishing effective coordination among the various entities until veterinary and authorized personnel could arrive on the scene to provide specialized care.

Importance of a Coordinated Response

Blanca Pérez, the counsellor for Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security, and Emergencies, underscored the critical nature of the drill. She pointed out that cetacean strandings can occur due to a variety of reasons, including natural phenomena and collisions with boats. Pérez emphasized the necessity for a well-organized response that involves not only trained professionals but also volunteers and established protocols to ensure effective intervention. She noted that while the Cabildo is responsible for the removal of stranded animals, collaboration with State Security Forces, Local Police, and town councils is vital for a successful operation.

Involvement of Diverse Stakeholders

The simulation attracted a wide array of participants, including veterinarians from the CRFS of La Tahonilla and the veterinary team from ULPGC, alongside representatives from the Loro Parque Foundation. Local authorities were also present, with Granadilla’s Mayor José Domingo Regalado participating actively. Additionally, personnel from various security and emergency services, including the Local Police, National Police, Civil Guard, Fire Consortium, Civil Protection Group, and Red Cross, contributed to the exercise. The inclusion of local residents and beachgoers highlighted the community aspect of the event, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for marine wildlife.

Pérez expressed her gratitude to the Granadilla Town Hall for their support in facilitating the event. She urged the public to report any cetacean strandings by contacting emergency services at 112. This action would trigger a coordinated response from the CRFS of La Tahonilla, local councils, and police, ensuring that stranded animals receive prompt attention.

Expert Insights on Cetacean Care

Antonio Fernández, a Professor of Animal Pathology at ULPGC, shared his thoughts on the significance of the cetacean care protocol being implemented at the La Tahonilla centre. He emphasized that this center has emerged as a key reference point for animal rescue and biodiversity conservation on the island. The collaboration among university veterinarians, local authorities, and logistical support from the Loro Parque Foundation was instrumental in the success of the simulation, showcasing a model for effective teamwork in wildlife emergencies.

Engaging the Community in Conservation Efforts

José Gregorio Sanabria, the councillor for Civil Protection and Emergencies in Granadilla, acknowledged the vital role of community involvement in such initiatives. He expressed his appreciation for the volunteers and security forces who participated, highlighting that the simulation serves as an educational tool for the public on how to respond to emergencies involving marine mammals. Sanabria reiterated his commitment to supporting similar projects in the future, recognizing the importance of fostering a culture of awareness and preparedness within the community.

Structure and Execution of the Simulation

The exercise was structured into both theoretical and practical components, taking place at the scenic El Médano beach. The first segment focused on small-sized cetaceans, where participants were assigned specific roles, including primary assistance providers and veterinary evaluators. Decisions regarding the animals’ fate, such as euthanasia or rehabilitation, were made by experts based on the circumstances presented during the simulation.

The second phase of the exercise simulated a stranding incident involving medium-sized cetaceans. Participants received practical training on the use of rescue pontoons, which are essential for safely transporting and reintroducing the animals back into their natural habitat. This hands-on experience was crucial for ensuring that all involved parties are well-prepared for real-life scenarios.

Key points

• The Cabildo of Tenerife conducted a cetacean stranding simulation at El Médano beach.
• The exercise aimed to train organizations in providing primary assistance to stranded marine mammals.
• Blanca Pérez highlighted the need for coordinated responses to cetacean strandings.
• Participants included local authorities, police, and emergency services, along with community members.
• Antonio Fernández emphasized the importance of the cetacean care protocol at La Tahonilla.
• The simulation included both theoretical training and practical exercises for handling stranding incidents.
• Community engagement was a key focus, with an emphasis on educating the public on emergency responses.