MIAMI — Lifeguards in South Florida jumped into action when they heard reports of a beached dolphin.

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue’s Ocean Rescue lifeguards discovered a baby dolphin on Saturday morning on the rock jetty at Haulover Beach in North Miami. They observed the animal was unable to swim or right itself and appeared to have been struck by a vessel, as noted in a social media post.

Pictures shared on X show the small dolphin with bloody scratches on its head. 

The lifeguards carefully removed the calf and transferred it to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation for care, with hopes of its recovery and eventual release back into the wild.

Wildlife authorities remind the public that it is illegal under federal law to feed or harass wild dolphins. If encountered in the wild, individuals should avoid feeding or swimming with them. Such human interactions can lead to increased risk of boat-related injuries, higher chances of entanglement in fishing lines, and a reduced inclination in the animals to seek out food independently.

Dolphins are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and it is best for humans to keep their distance and enjoy watching them from afar.