A heartbreaking scene unfolded in Australia on Tasmania’s remote shores on the week of 18 February this year as 157 false killer whales became stranded near Arthur River.
Despite tireless efforts by wildlife officials to refloat them, none could be saved. As conditions worsened and the animals continued to suffer, authorities made the difficult decision to euthanize the surviving whales.
Rescue Efforts Met with Harsh Realities
When the whales were discovered, rescuers jumped into action in hopes of guiding them back to sea. However, the remote location, strong currents, and the sheer size of the mammals, some weighing up to three tons, made the task nearly impossible.
Shelley Graham, from Tasmania’s Parks and Wildlife Service, explained the challenges:
‘The animals just can’t get past the break to get out. They keep turning around and coming back towards the beach.’
By Wednesday morning, 27 whales were euthanized, while 38 more remained stranded. Overnight, nature took its toll, and by Thursday morning, the remaining whales had succumbed to their suffering.
A Difficult but Necessary Decision
For wildlife experts, euthanasia was a painful but necessary decision. Beached whales face slow and agonizing deaths, as their own body weight crushes them in the atmosphere.
Dr. Kris Carlyon, deputy incident controller with the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, described euthanasia as a “last resort.” However, he emphasized that leaving the whales stranded for longer would only prolong their suffering.
“The longer these animals are out stranded, the longer they are suffering—all alternative options have been unsuccessful,” he said.
Mysterious Mass Strandings
This marks the third mass stranding on Tasmania’s west coast in five years, leaving experts searching for answers. Possible causes include illness, navigational errors, or social bonds that lead entire pods astray. Other theories point to climate change, underwater noise pollution, or magnetic anomalies.
“Tasmania is a hotspot for these events,” said Dr. Vanessa Pirotta of Macquarie University. “Perhaps its geography makes navigation difficult.”
Climate Change’s Role
Scientists warn that rising ocean temperatures and shifting currents may be disorienting whales by altering prey migration patterns.
“Overfishing and habitat loss could also be pushing them closer to shore,” added Dr. Angus Henderson from the University of Tasmania.
What Comes Next?
With all whales now deceased, officials must decide how to handle the remains; either burying them on-site or letting nature take its course.
Authorities have urged the public to stay away, reminding them that interfering with a whale carcass is illegal.
Meanwhile, scientists will conduct post-mortems in hopes of uncovering the cause of this tragic event.
Watch the video here:
@skynews More than 150 false killer whales have been stranded on a remote beach in Tasmania. #whales #tasmania #skynews
More from Wake Up Singapore:-
Justice for Kopi: Malaysia Outraged After Beloved Stray Dog Shot by Local Council
If you have a story or a tip-off, email admin@wakeup.sg or get in touch via Whatsapp at 8882 5913.
Since you have made it to the end of the article, follow Wake Up Singapore on Telegram!
Wake Up Singapore is a volunteer-run site that covers alternative views in Singapore. If you want to volunteer with us, sign up here!
If you can, please do consider buying a mug or two to support Wake Up Singapore’s work!
