As someone who’s spent over a decade exploring the coastlines of the United States, from the rugged shores of Maine to the sun-drenched beaches of California, I’ve seen a lot. But even I was surprised the first time I encountered a sturgeon washed up on the beach. These ancient, prehistoric-looking fish – often referred to as “dinosaur fish” due to their lineage – can be a startling sight. Finding a sturgeon washed up can be concerning, and knowing how to respond is crucial, both for the animal’s potential survival and for your own safety. This guide will walk you through what to do, what not to do, and why these magnificent creatures sometimes end up ashore.
Understanding Sturgeon: Living Fossils of Our Coastlines
Before diving into what to do if you find a stranded sturgeon, it’s important to understand a little about them. Sturgeon are among the oldest fish species on Earth, with fossils dating back over 200 million years. They’re anadromous, meaning they live in saltwater but migrate to freshwater rivers to spawn. There are several species of sturgeon found in the US, including the Atlantic sturgeon, shortnose sturgeon, white sturgeon, and green sturgeon. Many sturgeon populations are considered threatened or endangered, making their well-being even more critical. (NOAA Fisheries Sturgeon Page)
Why Do Sturgeon Wash Ashore?
There are several reasons why you might find a dinosaur fish washes up on the beach. These include:
- Natural Mortality: Older or sick sturgeon may simply die of natural causes and drift ashore.
- Predator Attacks: Sharks or other large predators may injure a sturgeon, leading it to become disoriented and wash up.
- Ship Strikes: Unfortunately, collisions with boats are a significant threat to sturgeon, especially during migration.
- Environmental Factors: Sudden changes in water temperature, salinity, or oxygen levels can stress sturgeon and cause them to become stranded.
- Disorientation: Sturgeon can become disoriented after spawning or due to strong currents.
What to Do When You Discover a Washed-Up Sturgeon
Okay, you’re walking along the beach and you see a large, armored fish. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to respond:
- Prioritize Safety: Sturgeon have bony plates called scutes and a powerful tail. While generally not aggressive, a distressed sturgeon can inflict a painful injury. Maintain a safe distance.
- Document the Sighting: Take clear photos and videos of the sturgeon, noting its size, location (GPS coordinates if possible), and any visible injuries. This information is vital for researchers and wildlife officials.
- Contact the Authorities IMMEDIATELY: This is the most important step. Do not attempt to move the sturgeon yourself. Contact one of the following:
- Your local State Fish and Wildlife Agency
- The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS)
- The nearest National Park Service (NPS) office if you are on National Park land.
- Local Marine Mammal Stranding Network (they often handle large fish as well).
- Provide Detailed Information: When you contact the authorities, be prepared to provide the photos/videos, location, size estimate, and any observations about the sturgeon’s condition.
- Protect the Sturgeon (from a distance): If possible, and without approaching the animal, try to keep people and pets away from the sturgeon while you wait for help to arrive. Shade it from direct sunlight if possible, using materials you find nearby (like seaweed or driftwood) – again, without touching the fish.
What Not To Do When You Find a Stranded Sturgeon
It’s just as important to know what not to do as it is to know what to do. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Do Not Attempt to Move the Sturgeon: Moving a large, potentially injured sturgeon can cause further harm. Leave it to trained professionals.
- Do Not Push It Back Into the Water: Even if the sturgeon appears alive, pushing it back into the ocean may not be the best course of action. It could be disoriented or injured and may simply wash up again.
- Do Not Harass or Disturb the Sturgeon: Avoid making loud noises or shining bright lights on the animal. Stress can worsen its condition.
- Do Not Attempt to Treat Injuries: Unless you are a qualified veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator, do not attempt to treat any injuries.
- Do Not Remove Any Parts of the Sturgeon: Sturgeon are protected by law, and removing any part of the fish (e.g., scutes, eggs) is illegal.
Sturgeon Conservation and the Role of Responsible Outdoor Enthusiasts
Sturgeon populations have declined dramatically over the past century due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. Many species are now listed as threatened or endangered. As outdoor enthusiasts, we have a responsibility to help protect these magnificent creatures. (Leave No Trace Principles) are a great starting point for minimizing our impact on the environment.
How You Can Help Sturgeon Populations
- Report Sightings: As discussed above, reporting stranded sturgeon is crucial.
- Support Sustainable Fisheries: Choose seafood that is sustainably sourced.
- Reduce Pollution: Minimize your use of plastics and other pollutants that can harm aquatic ecosystems.
- Advocate for Conservation: Support organizations and policies that promote sturgeon conservation.
- Educate Others: Share your knowledge about sturgeon with friends, family, and fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Resources for Further Information
Here are some additional resources where you can learn more about sturgeon:
- Atlantic Sturgeon Recovery Plan: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/atlantic-sturgeon
- US Fish & Wildlife Service Sturgeon Information: https://www.fws.gov/species/sturgeon-all
- REI Expert Advice on Fish Conservation: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/fish-conservation.html
- USDA Forest Service – Aquatic Conservation: https://www.fs.usda.gov/working-with-us/aquatic-ecosystems
Preparing for Coastal Adventures: A Quick Checklist
When heading out for a day on the beach or a coastal hike, it’s always a good idea to be prepared. Here’s a quick checklist:
| Item | Importance |
|---|---|
| First-Aid Kit | High |
| Sunscreen | High |
| Water | High |
| Phone (fully charged) | High |
| Binoculars | Medium |
| Camera | Medium |
| GPS Device/App | Medium |
Finding a sturgeon washed up on the beach is a rare but potentially impactful experience. By knowing what to do, and by respecting these ancient creatures, we can all play a part in ensuring their survival for generations to come. Remember, responsible exploration is key to preserving the beauty and biodiversity of our coastlines. If you're planning a trip to a coastal area, be sure to check out my article on Coastal Safety Tips for Hikers for more information on staying safe and prepared.