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Tragic scenes as at least 14 rare sperm whales are found DEAD and covered in blood in a mysterious mass stranding on a remote part of Australia’s coast
- At least 14 sperm whales have died after being stranded on King Island
- The whales were young males and washed ashore on Monday afternoon
- A plane flies over the island to see if there are still whales stranded
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At least 14 sperm whales have died after being stranded on King Island, off Tasmania’s northwest coast.
The whales washed ashore Monday, according to the Tasmania Department of Natural Resources and Environment.
At least 14 sperm whales (pictured) have died after washing up on King Island
The whales stranded Monday in a local fishing area off the west coast of the island
The department confirmed on Tuesday that 14 whale carcasses had been found at a local fishing spot.
A plane is scheduled to fly over the island to check for more beached whales.
Wldlife scientist Vanessa Pirotta said the cause of the strandings remained “a complete mystery.”
“We just don’t know why this is happening,” she told ABC.
“That’s the million dollar question every time this kind of event happens.”
dr. Pirotta said the stranding could have been caused by a navigational error, or by the group following a whale heading toward shore.
The department said it was not uncommon to see sperm whales in the area.
Swimmers and surfers are warned to avoid the west coast of King Island, as the whale carcasses can attract sharks.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.
The whales were young males, according to the Tasmania Department of Natural Resources and Environment
It is not known why the whales washed ashore, but it may be due to a navigational error
The department said it was not uncommon to see sperm whales off the coast of King Island