VAMMR’s rescue hotline is available 24 hours a day, and our trained team respond to marine mammal incidences 365 days a year. Our life-saving rescues are made possible with the support of people like you.
To report sick, injured or abandoned marine mammal, call VAMMR at 604-258-SEAL (7325) or call 1-800-465-4336 for large whales and other marine mammal incidents.
To ensure your safety and the safety of the animals, keep these guidelines in mind as you observe and report stranded marine mammals.
Never attempt to rescue on your own.
Do not touch, pick up or feed the animal. Do not return the animal to the water. In Canada, it’s against the law to disturb a marine mammal. Keep a safe distance away – if the animal reacts to you, you are too close. Keep other people and pets away.
Note physical characteristic such as size, fur or skin colour, and body condition. Does the animal have any noticeable injuries or wounds? Are there any obvious ID tags or markings? Take photos if possible, remembering to stay back.
If the animal you’ve spotted is a seal pup and it’s alone on the beach, make sure you assess the area. You might just see the mom’s head above the water nearby, and in this case the pup might not need rescuing. It’s always best to call VAMMR and our experts can assess the situation.
Call VAMMR at 604-258-SEAL (7325) or call DFO 1-800-465-4336 with details about the animal and your exact location.
All of our Marine Mammal response efforts are authorized and monitored by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) under licence # XMMS 1 2023. To learn more about DFO’s guidelines around observing marine wildlife please visit the DFO website.
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