DNER launches operation to rescue dolphin with embedded diving mask

By THE STAR STAFF

Rangers Corps Commissioner Nelson Cruz said Wednesday that personnel from the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) launched an operation at Icacos Cay off Fajardo to attend to a dolphin that had a diving mask embedded in its body.

“In light of this, we have coordinated with the Assistant Secretariat for Conservation and Research and its technical staff of biologists to address this situation urgently,” Cruz said in a written statement.

During the early morning hours, the Rangers Corps received videos and photographs showing the marine mammal with the piece of equipment embedded in its skin. 

According to Metro Puerto Rico, the dolphin is known as “Miguelito.”

The operation took place at the Cayos de la Cordillera Marine Natural Reserve. Authorities said they would close the area to boat traffic during the rescue efforts.

Personnel from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and other federal agencies provided support and oversight for the operation.