7 false killer whales are stranded on ‘remote' beach — then help arrives. See it
A rescue mission recently took place on an Australian beach after a group of false killer whales became stranded on the shore.
The incident occurred at House Beach, a 'remote' area about 300 miles southeast of Perth, according to a news release from the Parks and Wildlife Service, Western Australia.
On the evening of May 5, officials were notified that seven false killer whales had gotten stuck on the beach.
In response, a team of more than a dozen expert first responders traveled to the area 'at first light' on May 6.
'Sadly, four of the false killer whales had passed away overnight,' according to the release.
But, responders managed to stabilize the remaining trio of survivors and transport them into the open water.
Photos show the individuals in action, pouring large buckets of water over one of the whales and carrying them back into the sea.
Two of the rescued whales stayed offshore 'swimming freely.' But, one re-stranded and was euthanized 'to avoid prolonging its suffering.'
As of May 7, there had been no additional sightings of the two surviving whales, indicating they had not become stranded again.
'A huge thank you to the members of the public who reported the incident to DBCA (the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions) and assisted staff throughout the response,' the release said.
False killer whales — which are found throughout all the world's oceans — are distinguished by their dark complexion, slender frame and lack of a beak, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
They can measure up to 20 feet in length, weigh up to 3,000 pounds and live into their 60s.
The species is named after killer whales on account of their skull shape, which resembles that of orcas, according to the International Whaling Commission.
Several other mass stranding events have been recorded involving the species.
Other threats to false killer whales include environmental contaminants, hunting and lack of sufficient food, according to NOAA.
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