CAUSES OF DEATH IN MARINE MAMMALS STRANDED ALONG THE OREGON COAST

Abstract
Marine mammals (68) stranded on the Oregon [USA] beaches were examined at necropsy. Gunshot was the primary cause of death in 30% of the pinnipeds examined. Bacterial infections (27%) and parasitism (27%) were also important. Traumatic death or debilitation other than gunshot was observed in 11 animals (16%). Predation, starvation due to neonatal abandonment, viral encephalitis (presumptive diagnosis), dystocia and neoplasia were diagnosed as primary or contributory causes of stranding.