Medics mobilised for second Golden Bay stranding

 

23 January 2012

We are sad to report a second mass stranding of long-finned pilot whales at Farewell Spit in Golden Bay. All local Project Jonah Marine Mammal Medics are called to assist at the stranding site approximately seven kilometres up the spit.

Project Jonah CEO, Kimberly Muncaster, says an estimated 90 whales were seen milling close to the shore around lunchtime and have now grounded on a receding tide.

“Our volunteers will care for the whales until nightfall but due to the inherent dangers of working on the Spit in the dark and a fast incoming tide, they will need to be withdrawn as light fades,” she says.

“There’s a small chance the whales may refloat on tonight’s high tide at 11.00pm, but we will be back at first light to assess the situation and resume our rescue response.”

Project Jonah Marine Mammal Medics in the Golden Bay and Nelson areas have been called to give immediate first aid, with a second wave of medics on standby for tomorrow.

Volunteers with wetsuits are needed immediately and are reminded to look after themselves and each other by coming prepared.

“Please check out the Project Jonah website for a list of items to bring,” says Ms Muncaster.

“It’s tragic to see another stranding so close to the last one on Farewell Spit, but we’ll be doing  our best to save as many of these whales as we can.”

For further updates visit our Project Jonah Facebook page.