Authorities reported today, Wednesday, that more than 50 pilot whales died after stranding on a remote beach in Western Australia, while rescue teams attempt to return the rest of the pod to deeper waters. The Parks and Wildlife Service stated, "Unfortunately, 51 whales died overnight following a mass stranding." They added, "We are working in partnership with registered volunteers and other organizations to try to return 46 whales to deeper waters throughout the day."
Experts in marine life and volunteers camped overnight at Cheynes Beach, located more than 450 kilometers southeast of Perth, Australia, after finding the whales washed up near the shore. Pilot whales are known for their strong social bonds, so when one whale is in distress and strands, the others typically follow, according to marine life experts.
