Louisiana Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Rescue Program

The Louisiana Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Rescue Program (LMMSTRP), coordinated by Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, is the primary responder for the state of Louisiana for rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing marine mammals (dolphins, whales and manatees) and sea turtles.

LMMSTRP works with state and federal organizations such as NOAA, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the U.S. Coast Guard to respond to stranded marine mammals and sea turtles, to collect data about existing populations of marine animals along the Louisiana coast and waterways, and to assist and support researchers in the conservation of marine species.

To promote the conservation of our oceans' wildlife, LMMSTRP uses aerial surveys of waterways, lakes, and the coast, beach walks, necropsies, data collection, response to live strandings and rehabilitation of live animals. The goal is to locate and treat the animals, and prepare them for a successful release back into their natural environment.

After the 2010 Gulf oil spill, Audubon and LMMSTRP collaborated with NOAA, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the U.S. Coast Guard to respond to stranded and injured marine wildlife. Over 200 animals were rescued and treated by Audubon's staff after the oil spill. The greatest number of animals affected were Kemps Ridley sea turtles.