Body of rare dolphin washes up in Haida Gwaii (Video)

Vancouver Aquarium scientists are investigating after the body of a rare dolphin washed up on the shores of Haida Gwaii over the weekend.

A pair of scientists from the Vancouver Aquarium and the B.C. Cetacean Sightings Network were on the island and helped drag the 3.3-metres long animal away from shore.

The scientists performed a necropsy two days later.

“Marine mammals act as sentinels for our oceans. Not only does a necropsy and sample collection help us understand the individual’s health, but it also provides information about the health of the marine environment,” said Caitlin Birdsall of the B.C. Cetacean Sightings Network.

The cause of death was not immediately determined. Scientists collected samples from blubber, organ and fluid for further testing.

The skeleton was collected and, after cleaning, will be re-articulated and displayed locally.

Agencies/Canadajournal