In New Zealand, over 30 stranded pilot whales were successfully returned to the ocean with the help of conservation workers and local residents, although four whales died. The incident occurred on Ruakākā Beach, a known hotspot for whale strandings. A Māori cultural ceremony was held for the deceased whales, highlighting their cultural significance. New Zealand's geography contributes to frequent strandings, with over 5,000 recorded since 1840.
Tom Waddington, paddling solo across the Atlantic from Newfoundland to England to raise money for MindCharity, was surrounded by a pod of pilot whales, thrilling yet scaring him as they came dangerously close to his boat. Despite one whale hitting his boat, he continued his journey, monitored by his crew.
A pod of 97 long-finned pilot whales became stranded on Cheynes Beach in Western Australia, with 51 whales already dead. The whales exhibited unusual behavior, forming a tight ball and moving in a line before becoming beached. The chances of survival for the remaining whales are low due to cold and windy conditions, which can lead to hypothermia. The cause of pilot whale strandings remains a mystery, but it is believed that sick matriarchs or external stressors may be factors. Researchers are taking samples to investigate the cause, and more funding is needed for further research on mass strandings.
A pod of 55 pilot whales has died after being stranded on a beach in Scotland, marking the worst mass whale stranding in the area. Marine rescuers, coast guard, and police responded to reports of the distressed whales on Traigh Mhor beach. Only 15 whales were found alive, and attempts to refloat two of them were unsuccessful. The decision was made to euthanize the remaining whales due to the shallow beach, rough waves, and the length of time they had been out of the water. The cause of their stranding and death is yet to be determined.
More than 50 pilot whales have died in Scotland after becoming stranded on a beach on the Isle of Lewis, marking the largest mass stranding in the country in decades. Despite attempts to refloat the stranded whales, only one is believed to have survived. The British Divers Marine Life Rescue suspects that the whole pod was stranded after one whale experienced birthing complications. The Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme will conduct examinations to determine the cause of the stranding.
