A bottlenose dolphin that became stranded on a Gulf Coast beach following a shark attack two weeks ago has survived the ordeal and been named Gordy by his rescuers.

The Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network are happy to report that the young male dolphin is no longer in a critical condition and is eating fish tossed to him from staff. Network Coordinator Heidi Whitehead says he is currently being treated for shark bites and respiratory problems and is presently underweight. Despite making it through the worst his rehabilitation is expected to take months and will prove highly expensive for the centre.

Dolphins are one of the most intelligent and friendly animals on the planet, but they face a range of threats from human activity. Illegal hunting and the fishing industry are combining to greatly reduce numbers of these animals in the wild. If you want to help ensure that we do not lose this amazing species forever, you can sponsor a dolphin with WWF. Your donations will go directly to helping to conserve and protect your chosen dolphin and you will receive regular updates on exactly how your money is helping