**** Info via MARS
Outcome of the live pilot whale stranding and death last weekend.
As we previously reported, our multiple attempts to refloat the young female were unsuccessful and sadly, she did not survive. The primary reasons that refloatation was not successful were the extent of the surf and riptide currents but also the condition and young age of the animal.
Safety is always our foremost concern and in consideration for the safety of our team of Responders who had been working since 10am that morning, response efforts had to be called off at sunset due to the failing light and exposure. This was not a decision we made lightly and we wish the outcome had been different.
Upon examination of the whale following her death, we confirmed our suspicions that the animal was likely not fully weaned from her mother and as such, would have been less likely to survive in any case.
Our investigations showed no obvious signs of human interactions that would have contributed to her death (e.g. ingestion of plastic) but biological samples were collected so that our veterinary colleagues can explore any other potential contributing factors. As is often the case, we may never know what caused this animal to end up on one of our beaches.
Again, we thank everyone who supported these efforts. Responding to a live stranding is always challenging but doing so with the added layer of COVID restrictions, presented the potential for additional challenges. We were so happy that those who came to observe our team in action, were respectful of our space and in general adhered to public health protocols while onsite.
