Whale Wows Beachgoers with Close Encounter at Perth's Port Beach

A large sperm whale thrilled beachgoers at Port Beach, Australia, as it emerged just yards from the shore. Concerns were raised about the mammal potentially stranding, but it eventually swam away. Sperm whales typically remain offshore in deep water, diving to depths of over 10,000 feet. The whale's appearance prompted swimmers to exit the water temporarily. Sperm whales face various threats, including vessel strikes, entanglements, ocean noise, oil spills, and climate change.