Local authorities in Tasmania, Australia, have reported a distressing incident where more than 150 whales have become stranded near the town of Arthur River on the west coast of the island. The state’s Marine Conservation Program revealed that out of the 157 stranded animals, at least 90 were still alive as of the latest observations.
The stranded animals are believed to be false killer whales, as identified by Tasmania’s Department of Natural Resources and Environment. In response to this mass stranding, the Marine Conservation Program is collaborating with Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service to assess the situation and plan an appropriate response.
Authorities have urged the public to refrain from approaching the stranded whales, emphasizing that the stranding response in this remote area is complex. Should there be a need for assistance from the general public, specific requests will be communicated through appropriate channels.
It is important to note that all whales, whether alive or deceased, are protected species. Interfering with a whale carcass is considered an offense under the law, as highlighted by the government agency overseeing the situation.
Experts in animal behavior and marine science have cautioned that the survival prospects for beached whales are typically low. These animals can only endure for approximately six hours on land before their condition begins to deteriorate rapidly.
