MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Up to 160 long-finned pilot whales beached on the western Australian coast Thursday and at least 26 died before wildlife authorities could begin a rescue attempt, officials said.
A team of wildlife officers, marine scientists and veterinarians had reached the scene at Toby’s Inlet near the tourist town of Dunsborough, the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions said in a statement.
The stranded whales were from four pods spread across 500 meters (1,640 feet) of shore, the department said.
An additional 20 whales were in a pod about 1.5 kilometer (almost a mile) offshore and 110 whales formed a pod closer to the beach, it said.
“Our team is making every effort to safely respond and keep volunteers and staff safe, while also acting in the best interests of the whales,” the statement sad.
“Our team is assessing the conditions of the whales that have stranded on the beach. Our teams on the water are trying to keep the animals together and away from the beach,” the statement added.
More than 1 in 4 US adults over age 50 say they expect to never retire, an AARP study finds
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia call for a cease
UN chief calls for restraint after Iran's retaliatory attacks on Israel
Early voting for S. Korea's parliamentary elections kicks off
China reveals cases highlighting ecological security threats
Courtney Love is hit by angry backlash from Taylor Swift fans after branding singer 'unimportant'
Love Island's Molly Marsh shows off dramatic hair transformation
Presidium of China's annual legislative session holds 3rd meeting
How US changes to 'noncompete' agreements and overtime pay could affect workers
Schedule for China's NPC session on March 11