Marine Mammals of Maine

Marine Mammals of Maine (MMoME) was founded in 2011 by marine scientist Lynda Ada Doughty following the closure of Maine’s previous stranding response program. With a deep commitment to filling that critical gap, MMoME quickly became the state’s primary responder for stranded seals, sea turtles, and small cetaceans along more than 2,500 miles of coastline.

MMoME is equipped to care for maternally-dependent seal pups, offering specialized rehabilitation that includes round-the-clock feeding, isolation units, and gradual reintroduction to natural behaviors. Their Brunswick-based center provides short- and long-term care, while mobile triage units allow for rapid response and stabilization in the field.

In addition to live animal rescue, MMoME conducts necropsies on deceased marine mammals to investigate causes of death, disease prevalence, and the impact of human activity. These findings contribute to national databases and inform conservation policy. The organization also supports research on marine mammal health, including collaborations with veterinary schools and genetic labs.

Public education is central to MMoME’s mission. They offer school programs, community talks, and digital outreach to promote respectful wildlife viewing and ocean stewardship. Their hotline receives hundreds of calls annually, and their team is often seen on Maine’s beaches.