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Key Points
- Over 150 whales are beached on Tasmania’s remote west coast.
- Initial reports indicated 136 of the 157 stranded false killer whales were alive.
- People have been advised to avoid the area of the latest stranding.
They estimate around 90 of the group remain alive.
Initial observations suggested 136 of the 157 stranded whales were alive. Source: Supplied / Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania
The island state’s west coast is a noted hotspot for mass strandings, with .
“(This is) due to the inaccessibility of the site, ocean conditions and the challenges of getting specialised equipment to the remote area.”
Clark said euthanasia of whales was an option, and an appropriate response to the stranding was being prepared.
Experts say the outlook is grim for the whales who beached themselves at the remote location. Source: Supplied / Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania
He said a call-out for help from the general public would be made, if it was determined safe and necessary.
“All whales are protected species, even once deceased, and it is an offence to interfere with a carcass,” the environment department said.
