[Feature] Stranding sleuth
Marine mammal veterinarian Frances Gulland's tireless efforts to glean tissue and knowledge from hundreds of whale, dolphin, and seal strandings around the world have made her a prominent figure among marine mammal scientists. But her influence stretches far beyond pure research. She has helped transform a once sleepy rehabilitation facility into a vibrant, globally recognized science and conservation center and become a presidentially appointed adviser to policymakers, weighing in on thorny issues such as endangered species management. Her team demonstrated the potentially deadly role of an algal toxin in sea lions, shed light on marine mammal cancers and infectious diseases, and has convinced many that marine mammal health is a good indicator of the health of our oceans. Author: Elizabeth Pennisi