News Summary
In Bluffton, South Carolina, a dolphin named Lucky was successfully rescued from a shallow lagoon within the Hampton Lake private community. Local authorities and marine mammal rescue teams collaborated to save the approximately 8-foot-long dolphin, which was trapped due to heavy rainstorms and low tide. After a coordinated effort, Lucky was transported and released back into the May River, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in marine wildlife conservation.
Bluffton, South Carolina – A dolphin named Lucky has been successfully rescued from a shallow lagoon in the Hampton Lake private community, marking a significant effort by local authorities and marine mammal rescue teams. The approximately 8-foot-long dolphin, weighing between 400 to 500 pounds, was discovered stranded by a passerby around 10:30 a.m. on Saturday.
Experts believe that Lucky swam into the lagoon through a culvert linked to the May River during heavy rainstorms that occurred on Thursday. As the tide receded, she became trapped in water measuring only two to three feet deep, which put her life in jeopardy. Local rescue efforts were initiated quickly to bring Lucky back to safety.
Amber Kuehn, a local sea turtle expert and volunteer logistics coordinator for the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network (LMMN), was alerted to the situation and arrived at the lagoon. Recognizing the need for additional assistance, she contacted the Bluffton Fire Department at around 3:45 p.m. The Bluffton Township Fire District responded to the call, marking the department’s first-ever rescue of a marine mammal.
Cooperative Rescue Effort
A rescue team was quickly assembled, consisting of Bluffton firefighters, neighbors from Hampton Lake, and LMMN experts who are federally authorized to handle marine mammals. Initial rescue efforts were complicated when Lucky swam further into the lagoon, making it difficult for the team to reach her.
After determining the best course of action, the rescuers guided her onto a specialized marine rescue tarp to stabilize her condition for transport. Team members carefully carried Lucky approximately 75 yards through shallow water and up a steep embankment before placing her on a utility trailer.
Safe Return to May River
Lucky was transported to a private dock in May River Plantation, where she was ultimately released back into deeper waters of the May River around 6 p.m. Thanks to her distinctive dorsal fin, researchers were able to identify Lucky; she is known as a year-round resident of the May River and has previously raised three calves tracked by the University of South Carolina-Beaufort.
Fortunately, this year, she did not have a calf with her that could have followed her into the drainage ditch, alleviating some concerns about the rescue operation.
Public Awareness and Guidelines
The Bluffton Fire Department has issued a plea for residents to report any sightings of marine mammals in distress by calling 911 rather than attempting to handle the situation themselves. Additionally, the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network has encouraged the public to follow specific guidelines to protect marine mammals, which include:
- Report stranded or injured marine mammals to the SCDNR Wildlife Stranding Hotline: 1-800-922-5431.
- Do not approach or try to push a stranded dolphin back into the water, as they are wild and potentially sick animals.
- Avoid harassing marine mammals, as this could lead to federal fines.
- Maintain a distance of at least 50 yards away by boat and 15 yards on land.
- Never feed marine mammals to avoid disrupting their natural behaviors, which can lead to injury or death.
- Clear up trash and marine debris that could harm marine mammals.
The successful rescue of Lucky highlights the importance of community awareness and cooperation in protecting marine wildlife, ensuring that such creatures can continue to thrive in their natural habitats.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lucky the Dolphin Rescued from Bluffton Lagoon
Successful Rescue of Stranded Bottlenose Dolphin in Bluffton
Oregon Man Completes Epic Sailing Journey with Cat
Additional Resources
- WTOC: Dolphin Named Lucky Rescued
- ABC7 Chicago: Lucky the Dolphin Rescued
- Island Packet: Dolphin Rescue News
- Savannah Now: Bluffton Firefighters Rescue Dolphin
- Fox6 Now: Dolphin Stranded in South Carolina
- Wikipedia: Dolphins
- Google Search: Marine Mammal Rescue
- Google Scholar: Dolphin Rescue
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Marine Mammals
- Google News: Dolphin Rescue Bluffton
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
