Becoming a Marine Mammal Medic: A Day to Remember

Becoming a British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) Marine Mammal Medic is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. Living by the coast has shaped who I am — it’s been a part of me for as long as I can remember. I’ve often seen stories online about stranded seal pups, and have come across porpoises sadly washed ashore. I always wanted to do more, to help when these situations arise. This course felt like the natural next step.

Early Start, Coastal Journey

The day of the training arrived and I was up bright and early, full of anticipation. I caught the train to Herne Bay, watching the coastline roll by and thinking about everything ahead. I arrived early, introduced myself, and had a friendly chat with a few others who’d arrived ahead of time.

A Diverse Group United by the Sea

There were around 30 of us in total — a brilliant mix of people. Some were vet students, others worked in connection with the ocean, and a few, like myself, were everyday coastal dwellers passionate about marine life. It was great to be among people who shared that same care and curiosity.

Seal Rescue in the Morning

The morning session focused on seal rescue. We learned how to assess a seal’s condition, how to safely approach and handle them, and what to do in various real-life scenarios. The hands-on nature of the training made it all the more valuable.

The instructors were absolutely fantastic — knowledgeable, approachable, and with a great sense of humour that made the session fun and engaging.

Wetsuits and Whale Rescue

After lunch, we suited up in wetsuits for the dolphin and whale rescue portion of the course. This was more physically demanding, but equally rewarding. We practiced refloating techniques and learned how to manage marine mammal emergencies with calm and care.

A Day Well Spent

By the end of the day, I felt a real sense of achievement. It had been successful, enlightening, and above all, deeply enjoyable. I walked away with new skills, new connections, and a badge of honour that means a lot to me. I’m now officially a Marine Mammal Medic, ready to respond when needed.

Final Thoughts

For anyone who loves the coast and wants to be part of protecting its wildlife, I can’t recommend the BDMLR course enough. It’s one of the most worthwhile things I’ve done — and it’s just the beginning.