Marine biologists are working urgently to rescue over 100 pilot whales following a mass stranding on an Australian beach. Authorities are concerned that a large number of the whales may need to be euthanized.
A total of 130 whales were successfully returned to the sea after being stranded, as reported by the Department of Parks and Wildlife Service Western Australia (DPAW). Unfortunately, 29 whales did not survive the ordeal. It is important to note that whale pods have been known to re-beach themselves even after a rescue. Therefore, spotter planes are currently monitoring the area to observe whether the released animals will attempt to return to shore.
A spokesperson from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation, and Attractions reported that four groups of up to 160 pilot whales stranded themselves on the shores of Toby’s Inlet. The location is in close proximity to the town of Dunsborough in the popular southwestern region frequented by tourists, approximately 236 km (146 miles) south of the state capital Perth.
The representative stated that there were additionally 20 whales in a group approximately 1.5 kilometres away from the shore, and another group of more than 100 whales closer to the shore that concerned authorities feared might also become stranded.
Animal behaviour experts and marine scientists have previously stated that the chances of survival for stranded whales are minimal, as these magnificent creatures can only endure for approximately six hours on land before their condition begins to decline. Collaboratively, local communities and wildlife authorities joined forces to maintain the whales’ upright position and ensure their blowholes remained unobstructed.
Pilot whales, similar to other whale species, exhibit strong social bonds, particularly when one of their pod members is sick or injured. While in the deep sea, their care for each other remains undisturbed. However, if an injured whale strays near the shore, numerous hazards may impede the pod’s ability to assist, as echolocation may not function effectively.
