More than 140 pilot whales have died by stranding on a remote New Zealand beach.
On Saturday night the Department of Conservation [DoC] said it was alerted of the mass whale stranding in Mason Bay on Stewart Island. It also said at least half of the whales were dead by the time staff arrived at the scene.
“Sadly, the likelihood of being able to successfully refloat the remaining whales was extremely low. The remote location, lack of nearby personnel and the whales’ deteriorating condition meant the most humane thing to do was to euthanise,” said Leppens. “However, it’s always a heartbreaking decision to make.”
A hiker discovered 145 pilot whales in two pods just over a mile apart late on Saturday on Stewart Island.
It is believed strandings can be caused by a number of factors, such as the whales trying to escape predators, falling ill, or navigating incorrectly.
The native Māori, tribe, Ngāi Tahu, is planing with DOC to bless the lifeless whales and to burial the bodies.
> Shiuly Rina
At least 140 Pilot Whales Die on' New Zealand Beach
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