Euthanasia Considered for Stranded False Killer Whales in Tasmania
More than 150 false killer whales are stranded on a Tasmanian beach, and experts have decided to euthanize those that remain alive.
It was not immediately known what caused the mass beaching.
Video: Nearly 100 beached whales in Tasmania euthanized after rescue attempts fail
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False killer whales are a type of dolphin named for their resemblance to orcas.
90 stranded whales to be euthanized in Tasmania
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The lead rescuer said unfavorable ocean and weather conditions are preventing the whales from being rescued and re-floated, as the whales keep getting stranded due to surging and thrashing water.
Stranded false killer whales in Tasmania likely unable to be rescued
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The inaccessibility of the beach, ocean conditions and challenges to getting specialist equipment to the remote area complicated the response.
Over 150 false killer whales stranded on Australia beach cannot be saved, experts say
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Summary
Over 150 false killer whales have stranded near Arthur River, Tasmania, leading authorities to consider euthanasia after unsuccessful rescue attempts. Ongoing unfavorable weather and ocean conditions hindered efforts to refloat the stranded pod, and only 90 of the original 157 whales remain alive. Maritime experts have indicated that the prolonged stranding prolongs the animals' suffering, leaving euthanasia as the only viable option to prevent further distress. This event marks the first stranding of false killer whales in Tasmania in nearly 50 years, with possible causes including disorientation and harsh environmental conditions.
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