The state’s Department of Natural Resources and Environment said that 157 pseudo-killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens – a species of marine mammal of the dolphin family – ed.) were found on a surfing beach near the Arthur River on the northwest coast of Tasmania on Tuesday.
The young mammals weighed only 500 kg, while the adults weighed 3,000 kg.
Despite their name, pseudo-killer whales are one of the largest representatives of the dolphin family.
Experts said that the unfavorable weather and ocean conditions that prevented the mammals from being rescued on Wednesday will continue for several more days.
Marine biologist Chris Carlion said that the surviving animals will be euthanized.
“The longer these animals are stranded, the longer they suffer. All alternative options have been unsuccessful,” he said.
The Australian agency also noted that the stranding of pseudo-killer whales in Tasmania was the first for the state since 1974.
