GREAT BRAK RIVER NEWS - A female humpback whale was found stranded on Tuesday, 16 April at Pienaarstrand near Great Brak River.
While waiting for the tide to recede, the whale started to move and all present were optimistic that she might swim out into the big blue as she was not completely wedged between sandbanks.
She moved quite strongly and then suddenly made a direct turn for the beach as if to tell everybody: "I am not going to be eaten alive by sharks. Experience all over the world has shown that whales seem to prefer not to die at sea."
After video footage was taken and sent to the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) and a veterinarian, the authorisation was given to euthanise the whale as soon as possible. Because of strong currents and an incoming high tide, the heart-wrenching event took place in the late afternoon.
The following day, scientific samples were taken by Sasha Dines from Oceans Research as per prescribed protocol. These samples will be sent to the DEA. The Mossel Bay Municipality removed the carcass from the beach on Thursday, 18 April.
The condition of the whale
On arrival at the scene, there were clear signs that the animal was ill. It was extremely thin and the ribcage showed. The 12.35m whale was also covered in whale lice.
These are Amphipods that are adapted to a parasitic mode of life, and they feed on whale skin. They are also species specific. Whale lice of a Humpback will not be found in a Southern Right whale.
It was however, the emaciated condition of the whale that raised concern and if conditions were more suitable, a post mortem would have been done to determine why this beautiful animal stranded herself.
Protocol
A live whale stranding always creates a lot of emotion. Unfortunately, the public are not always aware of the long list of prescribed rules and regulations concerning the welfare of firstly the people that work with these animals and then of course, the animal itself. Nobody can decide by themselves that an animal has to be euthanized. This is done by looking at detailed photos and if possible, video footage.
There are definite signs/symptoms of an ill animal that the cetacean specialists can identify.
The Stranded Marine Animal Rescue Team would like to thank all roleplayers that helped on the day. There were residents that opened their houses for the volunteers and Great Brak Spar sponsored 25 cups of coffee for the cold and wet volunteers on the beach.
During a stranding such as this, it is the collaborative effort of the various organisations and residents that makes the task easier.
The last photo of the sick animal.
Whale lice can clearly be seen on the animal.
Whale lice are amphipods that are adapted to a parasitic mode of life, and they feed on whale skin.
A beautiful rainbow formed over the sick whale.
'We bring you the latest Great Brak River, Garden Route news'
