Unprecedented Rescue Effort Launched for Endangered Sawfish in Florida

Federal and state agencies collaborate to save sawfish exhibiting unusual spinning behavior and dying in high numbers.

Endangered smalltooth sawfish in Florida are spinning erratically and dying, prompting an emergency response from NOAA and state wildlife agencies.
The unusual behavior has affected over 100 sawfish, with at least 28 confirmed deaths since late January.
No cause has been identified yet, as necropsies and water testing have not revealed pathogens, contaminants, or environmental factors like low oxygen levels.
The rescue effort involves capturing and rehabilitating affected sawfish at specialized facilities, a first of its kind for this species.
Public participation is crucial, with officials urging reports of dead or distressed sawfish to aid the rescue operation.