### Unprecedented Surge in Dolphin Strandings on Cape Cod Linked to Climate Change

Cape Cod, Massachusetts, known for its scenic beaches and marine life, is currently facing a significant increase in dolphin strandings, baffling scientists and stressing rescue resources. This year alone, 342 live stranded dolphins have been reported, a dramatic rise from the annual average of 67 cases, according to the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW).

This alarming uptick has been attributed in part to changes in ocean conditions, likely driven by climate change, which affect the availability of small fish that dolphins feed on. Brian Sharp, the lead for IFAW’s marine mammal rescue team, and a biologist, mentioned that the prey the dolphins rely on has been swimming unusually close to shore. He noted that any climate change impact on ocean temperature and salinity could ripple through the food web, eventually affecting marine mammals.

The situation escalated earlier this month when a surge in stranded dolphins overwhelmed the IFAW. In one week alone, over 50 dolphins were beached across various beaches and waterways. Despite these daunting numbers, 293 of the stranded dolphins were successfully released back into the wild. However, the rescue team also discovered more than 90 dolphins dead upon arrival.

Most of the affected dolphins include species such as common dolphins, Atlantic white-sided dolphins, Risso's dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins. Cape Cod’s proximity to crucial dolphin feeding grounds and its popularity among whale watchers due to its diverse marine species make these strandings particularly concerning.

Efforts to understand and mitigate these strandings continue as scientists work to decode the complex web of ecological changes linked to warmer waters. The IFAW is dedicated to responding to these emergencies, but this year serves as a stark reminder of the broader environmental issues impacting marine life.