MOSSEL BAY NEWS - The Stranded Marine Animal Rescue Team (Smart) came to the rescue of a stranded female kogia (a pygmy sperm whale) that was spotted on some rocks close to the shore at Little Brak River on Monday 29 June.
Smart shared details of the incident to their official Facebook page on Tuesday 30 June.
According to the organisation, the whale had sustained multiple lacerations on her body from being bashed against the rocks.
“Attempts were made to refloat her before the call came through, but she kept returning to shallow water where the waves rolled her repeatedly,” reads the post.
Smart, alongside Sr Stefanie of the Hartenbos Animal Hospital and four volunteers from the public, Ruben Steyn, Wian Venter, Hendri Zietsman and Paul Zietsman, responded to the scene and managed to keep the kogia whale upright.
“With every surge tide rolling in, they carefully moved her a little further up the beach. Without the strength and dedication of these four young men, this would not have been possible”, said Smart.
Dr Frans de Graaff later assessed the animal’s condition and administered a sedative to calm her.
After careful consideration of her injuries, and with the necessary confirmation and permission, she was euthanised to prevent further suffering, said Smart.
The organisation has extended a heartfelt thanks to all those involved, including the public for “creating a safe and calm space for an already stressed animal”.
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