Overview
- A large sperm whale is stuck about 15 metres into shallow water at Turners Beach and appears to be alive with blood visible around it.
- Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service and the Department of Natural Resources and Environment have crews on site and are waiting for scientists to assess the whale and recommend next steps.
- Officials have warned onlookers to keep their distance because whales are large and powerful, entering the water is dangerous and it is an offence to interfere with wildlife.
- The stranding was reported by a member of the public to the marine mammal hotline, which can be reached on 0427 942 537 (0427 WHALES).
- The final response will depend on the scientific assessment and could include a rescue attempt, field treatment or humane euthanasia, and authorities say local beach closures and monitoring should continue while the situation is resolved.