Australia: Over 150 False Killer Whales Stranded

Authorities announced on Wednesday that more than 150 false killer whales have become stranded on a remote beach in the Australian state of Tasmania.

In a statement, the Department of Natural Resources and Environment explained that marine experts, including veterinarians, were on-site near the Arthur River on Tasmania’s northwestern coast.

According to the DPA agency, the statement added that 136 out of 157 whales appeared to be still alive. However, authorities face significant challenges in responding due to the difficult access to the beach and ocean conditions that hinder the arrival of specialized equipment in the remote area.

The administration clarified that public assistance had not been requested so far.

Jocelyn Flint, a resident of Arthur River, mentioned that her son discovered the stranded whales in the middle of the night while shark fishing. Authorities were subsequently notified on Tuesday evening.

She also stated that she visited the site the next morning but that the large size of the whales made any refloating attempts impossible.

It is worth noting that in 2022, around 230 pilot whales were stranded in southern Tasmania.