July 27 (UPI) – More than 40 pilot whales had to be euthanized in Western Australia on Thursday after an extensive rescue attempt failed to prevent them from beaching themselves.
The Western Australia Parks and Wildlife Service reported that despite the “best efforts” of volunteers to move the 45 stranded whales on Cheynes Beach to deeper waters, all of them became re-stranded. The decision was then made to euthanize 43 of the whales.
“Yesterday’s operation went as well as expected. While it wasn’t the outcome we had hoped for, I witnessed the very best of humanity and the generosity of those who responded to this incident,” said Peter Hartley of the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation, and Attractions. Hartley expressed gratitude towards the more than 250 volunteers and 100 staff members involved in the rescue efforts.
On Tuesday, a group of at least 97 pilot whales tightly gathered along the shoreline before washing up on the beach. Volunteers and authorities attempted to guide them away from the shore by setting up barriers and using boats.
However, by Wednesday, more than half of the group had already died.
“Within an hour of beaching, veterinarians had assessed the whales and confirmed they were displaying signs of rapid deterioration,” stated the Parks and Wildlife Service.
Volunteers made efforts to pour water on the living whales, hoping to keep them wet enough for a safe return to the water. However, they were eventually asked to leave when it became evident that the rescue mission was futile.
The reasons behind why whales beach themselves are not yet fully understood, but pilot whales have been involved in many beaching incidents in Australia. In 2022, 230 pilot whales also washed up on a beach in Tasmania.
“It’s a devastating event, but it’s incredibly heartwarming to witness the compassion of individuals striving to keep these whales afloat,” commented Environment Minister Reece Whitby.
While Whitby appreciated public concern, he assured that there were enough volunteers present to handle the situation.
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