By. Harippria Peiris with Staff
Media reports that over 150 whales are stranded on a ‘remote beach’ in Tasmania.
An emergency rescue operation is already underway. It is reported that efforts are being made to save many of them who are still alive.
Although the false killer whale has been introduced, this animal is a very social dolphin species.
As mentioned earlier, false killer whales are marine members of the dolphin family.
Although this species typically lives in deep, offshore tropical and subtropical waters, it can also be found in temperate waters. Growing up to 6 meters long, these animals also have large pods.
The state’s Department of Environment has announced that conservation experts and veterinarians have arrived at the hard-to-reach area of the Arthur River in northwest Tasmania.
Preliminary observations suggest that 136 of the 157 stranded mammals believed to be false killer whales are currently alive.
Further assessments are being undertaken and a response plan is being developed.
CSNA Media attempted to gather more details. It was heard that “the site’s inaccessibility, ocean conditions and challenges in getting specialist equipment to the remote area complicated the response in this 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.”
Australia’s largest recorded stranding involved 470 pilot whales occurred in 2020 at Macquarie Harbour, south of the Arthur River.
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.