Rescuers race to save stranded porpoise near Vale Castle in Guernsey

A stranded porpoise was discovered beneath Vale Castle in Guernsey on Sunday, prompting an urgent response from the GSPCA. The animal, found in poor health, was repeatedly circling back into shallow water. Local wildlife rescuers quickly stepped in to assist.

Geoff George and Danni Brouard from the GSPCA worked to guide the porpoise back into deeper water. Despite their efforts, the marine mammal struggled to stay afloat and remained at risk of re-stranding. Due to its serious condition, the team called for emergency veterinary support.

The porpoise was later moved to the bathing pools for overnight monitoring. Though it was successfully re-floated, the GSPCA warned it could become stranded again. The organisation continues to track its condition and will provide further updates as needed.

This incident follows a pattern of marine mammal strandings in the Bailiwick in recent years. Locations such as Perelle Bay, Cobo Bay, Rocquaine Bay, and Lihou Island have seen frequent cases involving dolphins and pilot whales, as recorded by the Guernsey Biological Records Centre and La Société Guernesiaise between 2020 and 2025.

The GSPCA has praised Geoff George's efforts and is asking the public to report any further sightings of distressed marine mammals immediately. Anyone spotting a struggling porpoise or similar animal along the coastline is urged to contact the GSPCA without delay. Vigilance from beachgoers and residents remains crucial in protecting local wildlife.