Stranded whales alive on remote beach
Wildlife experts have been sent to assess the condition of 157 whales stranded on a remote Tasmanian beach, with most of the mammals believed to still be alive.
More than 150 whales are beached on Tasmania’s remote west coast, a notorious hotspot for strandings.
Conservation experts and veterinarians have arrived at the hard-to-reach location near the Arthur River, the state’s environment department said on Wednesday.
Initial observations suggest 136 of the 157 stranded mammals, which appear to be false killer whales, are alive. Further assessments are being undertaken and a response plan is being developed.
“Stranding response in this area is complex due to the inaccessibility of the site, ocean conditions and the challenges of getting specialist equipment to the remote area,” the department said.
“If it is determined there is a need for help from the general public, a request will be made through various avenues.”
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Australia’s worst-ever stranding involving 470 pilot whales occurred in 2020 at Macquarie Harbour, south of the Arthur River on Tasmania’s west coast.
In 2022, around 230 pilot whales got into trouble in shallow water at the heads of Macquarie Harbour.
People have been advised to avoid the area of the latest stranding because of an active bushfire in the area.
“All whales are protected species, even once deceased, and it is an offence to interfere with a carcass,” the department said.
