Authorities have launched a desperate rescue effort following a mass stranding of between 50 and 100 pilot whales on a beach in Western Australia.
The whales were stranded in Toby’s Inlet, near Dunsborough, about three hours’ drive south of Perth.
The Western Australian Parks and Wildlife Service posted on Facebook to alert the public about the stranding, and staff from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) joined those in Perth. Zoo veterinarians will try to return the animals to the water.
“We know people want to help, but we ask that you do not attempt to rescue the animals without the direction of DBCA staff, as this may cause further injury and distress to the animals and hinder a coordinated rescue effort,” the post said. .
Rescuers are currently conducting a desperate rescue effort following a mass stranding of between 50 and 100 pilot whales on a Western Australian beach.
‘The top priority in cases of mass whale strandings is always human safety followed by animal welfare. “We want all staff and volunteers to return home safely.”
The mass stranding follows a similar event in Albany, further south on the WA coast, last year.
In November, 34 pilot whales were also found dead at Bryans Beach, 140 kilometers northeast of Hobart.