It’s all hands on deck in Toby Inlet in Western Australia. About 160 pilot whales are stranded there. Rescuers are now trying to save as many animals as possible.
“We understand that four groups totaling 160 pilot whales have washed up over approximately 500 metres,” the Western Australian Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions said. “Unfortunately, 26 pilot whales stranded on the beach have died. A team of experienced staff, including wildlife officers, marine scientists and veterinarians, are on site or en route.”
About twenty pilot whales are said to be about 1.5 kilometers from the coastline, while about 110 others are closer to the beach.
“Our team is doing everything we can to respond safely and keep volunteers and employees safe, while also acting in the best interests of the pilot whales,” it said. “Our team is assessing the condition of the pilot whales stranded on the beach. Our teams on the water try to keep the animals together and away from the beach. Based on previous strandings of this species, such as last year at Cheynes Beach near Albany, these events usually result in the stranded animals having to be euthanized. We always hope for the best outcome.”
A shark warning has also been issued in the region. The dead pilot whales could attract sharks.
