A dolphin found stranded on Sand Key Beach over a week ago is on the road to recovery.
The animal, taken in initially by Clearwater Marine Aquarium before being transported to the SeaWorld Animal Care Team, was identified as a Steno bredanensis, or rough-toothed dolphin estimated as a sub-adult that is over the age of four.
The 200-pound dolphin is still being tube-fed fluids and medications, but is beginning to actively seek out food when offered, which is an encouraging sign for the team members who are with the animal all through the day and night.
This week, veterinarians performed radiographs on the animal and found possible signs of marine sponge in its abdomen, which it has been regurgitating. They will continue to monitor and run additional tests to confirm.
The SeaWorld Animal Care Team and veterinarians will continue to provide around-the-clock care and treatment, with the ultimate goal to rehabilitate and return him to the wild.