A dolphin name “Lucky” lived up to her name in Bluffton this weekend.
The nearly 8-foot marine mammal is lucky someone passing by a lagoon near the May River Saturday saw her stranded in shallow waters just 2-3 feet deep.
She’s lucky researchers at the University of South Carolina Beaufort who track dolphins immediately recognized her distinctive markings as she's regularly seen in the river.
And she’s lucky that a team, including the Bluffton Township Fire District, was able to hoist her 400 to 500 lb. body to safety.
Officials feared “Lucky’s” luck was about to run out after she swam into a culvert connecting the tidal lagoon in the Hampton Lake community to the May River. They believe she got stuck when water from last week's heavy rain and high tides finally receded.
The rescue team, made up of firefighters as well as members of the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network (LMMN), used a specially designed tarp with stabilizing poles to corral Lucky. Then, they carried her more than 200 feet up a steep embankment to a trailer where she was loaded up and taken to a private dock.
Within hours, Lucky was safely released into deeper waters at the May River Plantation.
“This was a textbook example of interagency teamwork and calm under pressure,” said Lauren Rust, the Executive Director of the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network.
“From our trained responders to the Bluffton firefighters and helpful community members, everyone played a vital role in ensuring Lucky’s safe return home.”
The public is reminded that anyone who spots a dolphin or other marine mammal in distress is urged not to approach or try to help. Instead, call 911.
Marine Mammals are protected under federal law and only authorized organization like LMMN can respond. The public can also call 1-800-922-5431.
