Physical Appearance:
- Visible injuries, such as wounds, cuts, abrasions, bruises, or bleeding.
- Changes in pigmentation or color of the skin.
- Loss of scales, feathers, or fur.
- Swelling or inflammation of body parts.
- Unusual body posture or difficulty in maintaining balance.
- Lethargy or weakness.
Behavioral Changes:
- Reduced activity or abnormal movements.
- Difficulty swimming or diving.
- Floating at the surface or inability to submerge.
- Changes in feeding behavior, such as refusal to eat or difficulty swallowing.
- Unusual interactions with other animals or changes in social behavior.
- Stranding on beaches or shores when it's unusual for the species.
Respiratory Issues:
- Labored breathing or changes in respiration rate.
- Gasping at the surface of the water for air.
- Nasal discharge or bubbles from the blowhole (for cetaceans).
- Coughing or sneezing.
Neurological Problems:
- Loss of coordination or disorientation.
- Unusual swimming patterns or circling behavior.
- Head tilt or inability to maintain a normal body position.
- Seizures or tremors.
Digestive Problems:
- Vomiting or regurgitation.
- Diarrhea or changes in stool consistency.
- Abdominal pain or tenderness.
Ocular Issues:
- Cloudy or milky eyes.
- Swelling or inflammation around the eyes.
- Inability to open or close one or both eyes.
Skin Concerns:
- Skin lesions, rashes, or sores.
- Fungal or bacterial infections on the skin.
- Parasites or external organisms attached to the skin.
General Illnesses:
- Weight loss or lack of muscle mass.
- Dehydration, indicated by dry skin or sunken eyes.
- Increased vocalizations (for vocal species).
- Reduced responsiveness to external stimuli.
It's important to note that these symptoms alone might not indicate the exact cause of the casualty, and veterinary professionals experienced in marine animal care should be consulted for proper diagnosis and treatment.