About 140 Pilot Whales Stranded in Western Australia, 26 Dead as Rescue Efforts Underway

On Tuesday, April 25, 2024, a mass stranding of approximately 140 pilot whales occurred in Geographe Bay near Dunsborough, Western Australia, about 236 km south of Perth. At least 26 of the whales have already died, as wildlife experts and authorities from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) attempt a rescue operation.

The whales are spread across 500 meters of popular beach, with an additional two pods of around 130 animals offshore in the ocean. DBCA staff, along with Perth Zoo veterinarians and marine scientists, are on the scene assessing the condition of the stranded whales and coordinating the rescue effort. Vessels are trying to prevent another group of about 20 whales from coming to shore.

Authorities have warned the public not to attempt rescuing the whales without the direction of DBCA personnel, as this could cause further injury and distress to the animals. "The priority is ensuring the safety of staff and volunteers as well as the whales," a DBCA spokesperson stated. The City of Busselton has sent rangers to help control traffic, and people are advised to avoid swimming in the area over the next few days as the dead whales could attract sharks.

Why this matters: Mass strandings of pilot whales, while not uncommon, often result in high mortality rates and require extensive rescue efforts. This event, the largest mass stranding in Western Australia since 1996, highlights the ongoing need for marine conservation and the importance of coordinated response plans to protect vulnerable marine species.

Geographe Marine Research chair Ian Wiese, who is at the scene, said it was evident several whales were already dead and that more deaths were expected in the next few hours. Based on previous similar incidents, the DBCA has stated that these events often result in the euthanasia of the beached whales as the most humane outcome. Police are assisting with the response and have urged people to move their vehicles to allow access for rescue resources.

Key Takeaways

• Mass stranding of ~140 pilot whales in Geographe Bay, Western Australia.
• At least 26 whales have died, with more expected; rescue efforts underway.
• Authorities warn public not to attempt rescues; sharks may be attracted.
• This is the largest mass stranding in Western Australia since 1996.
• Euthanasia may be the most humane outcome for beached whales.