More pilot whales die from beachings in New Zealand

January 23, 2012 – NEW ZEALAND – About 22 pilot whales stranded around Farewell Spit have died and fears are mounting for the remaining 77 as rescuers pack up for the evening. Project Jonah chief executive Kimberly Muncaster told NZ Newswire volunteers had tried desperately to save the whales which became stranded just after midday. “It was very sad,” she said. “But there was nothing more that we could have done.” Volunteers had begun leaving the scene for the evening about 8.45pm on Monday for safety reasons. Ms Muncaster said although there was only a small chance the remaining live whales would refloat at high tide about 11pm, she remained hopeful. Volunteers had spent the afternoon trying to keep the whales cool and upright. Project Jonah marine mammal medics have also been called to give the whales first aid. Rescue efforts were due to resume at first light on Tuesday. The spot where the whales were stranded is close to Farewell Spit, where 25 were stranded early in January. Seven of those whales died, while 65 whales died after becoming stranded in the same area in November. –NZ News

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