Tara Whaanga and Shaavone Brown (Rongowhakaata), joined DoC ranger Jamie Quirk at Waikanae Beach where a pygmy whale, which had beached several times, was euthanised. Picture by Rebecca Grunwell
Tara Whaanga and Shaavone Brown (Rongowhakaata), joined DoC ranger Jamie Quirk at Waikanae Beach where a pygmy whale, which had beached several times, was euthanised. Picture by Rebecca Grunwell
The Department of Conservation (DoC) humanely euthanised a stranded pygmy whale at Waikanae Beach yesterday.
DoC heritage and visitors senior ranger Moira Lee said the whale had repeatedly beached itself on the Gisborne shoreline.
“The pygmy sperm whale was first reported to DoC when it appeared in the Turunganui river onSaturday. The agency’s standby ranger investigated and noted the whale appeared unwell, but did not take further action.”
The next morning DoC staff were informed that a marine mammal of similar description had beached at Waikanae, and members of the public were attempting a refloat.
“When DoC staff attended the scene, the animal was already out to sea,” Ms Lee said.
“The whale washed up again on Tuesday morning very close to death, when it was humanely euthanised.”
Ms Lee said while recognising the well-meaning efforts of the public in this instance, DoC urges the public to call 0800 DOC HOT as soon as possible if they find a marine mammal beached or in distress, or alternatively Project Jonah on 0800 4 WHALE (0800 4 94253).
