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2h ago

At Least One of Three Stranded Sperm Whales Off P.E.I. Is Confirmed Dead

Difficult access is forcing a drone-led assessment that limits both rescue attempts and potential necropsies.

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A small pod of three sperm whales became stranded in shallow waters off P.E.I.'s north shore on Saturday, Sept. 27. By Monday, Sept. 29, reports from the scene were that at least one, possibly two, of the animals had died. Efforts to determine the condition and possibility of rescue for the third were underway throughout the day. Contributed by Noah Day

Overview

  • Three whales were reported Saturday near Hardy’s Channel at East Bideford in a region where multi-animal strandings are considered highly unusual.
  • By Monday, responders reported at least one whale had died overnight, a second was believed to be breathing, and the third’s condition remained unclear.
  • Fisheries and Oceans Canada says officers are monitoring the site and using drones because it is hard to reach by foot or boat, and the public is asked to stay 200 metres away.
  • The Marine Animal Response Society notes the whales’ size and dense build make moving them hazardous, and improper towing could cause additional harm.
  • MARS has consulted UPEI’s Atlantic Veterinary College about necropsies to determine causes of death, though the location may prevent examinations.