Tragic Mass Stranding: 157 Dolphins Beached on Remote Australian Shore
February 19 – A devastating mass stranding has occurred on a remote beach in Tasmania, Australia, where 157 dolphins have become trapped on the shore, with dozens already dead.
Authorities say the stranded dolphins belong to the false killer whale species, a deep-sea mammal known for its social nature and orca-like skull structure. As of this morning, around 90 dolphins were still alive, but their chances of survival remain uncertain.
Race Against Time to Save the Survivors
Rescue teams face significant challenges in refloating the dolphins due to the species’ large size—some individuals weigh over a tonne. State wildlife officer Brendon Clark acknowledged the harsh reality of the situation, saying that euthanasia may be considered to prevent unnecessary suffering.
“As with any stranding, euthanasia is an option to minimize suffering, and we have veterinarians on-site to make informed decisions if necessary,” Clark told reporters.
The incident took place near the Arthur River inlet on Tasmania’s rugged west coast, a remote and windswept region that complicates rescue efforts. Images from the scene show sleek, dark-skinned dolphins struggling in the wet sand as shallow waves lap against them.
Unsolved Mystery: Why Did They Strand?
False killer whales, which can grow up to six meters in length, are highly social and often travel in pods of 50 or more. The species is known for its tendency to mass strand, sometimes leading to the deaths of entire pods.
Despite this, the exact reason for this particular stranding remains unknown. Clark noted that this is the first time in 50 years that false killer whales have beached in this part of Tasmania.
“They are migratory animals that roam the open waters across the globe. Why they have stranded for the first time in decades is still a mystery,” he said.
Post-mortem examinations will be conducted in an attempt to uncover the cause. False killer whales are classified as “near threatened” by the Australian government, and little is known about their global population.
Rescue teams continue to battle the harsh conditions in hopes of saving as many dolphins as possible.