Two humpback whale calves die on K’gari

The discovery of two more dead whales on K’gari brought the number of deaths off the Fraser Cooloola Coast in the past few weeks to six, as authorities confirmed they were running tests to ensure there was nothing to be concerned about.

Samples have been taken from stranded whales on the Fraser Coast as two more humpback calves washed up on K’gari this week.

The latest deaths have occurred in the wake of a series of strandings since migrating whales started moving up the Qld coast in June.

Experts have said there seem to be more deaths because there are more whales than ever, thanks to a recovery in their population.

On Wednesday and Thursday, August 2-3, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service responded to two stranded humpback calves on K’gari.

On Thursday morning, they received a report of a dead calf north of Eurong, near One Tree Rocks.

They investigated and the remains will be moved above the dunes, away from the nearby public area.

On Wednesday afternoon, rangers responded to a humpback calf stranded north of Lake Wabby.

One of the humpback whales that washed up on K'gari this week.

Members of the public reported the calf after it was found on the beach in a very poor condition.

Rangers attended the scene and, after consulting a veterinarian, the animal was humanely euthanised.

“Whale calves can strand for different reasons, including poor health or injury,” a Department of Environment and Science spokesperson said.

“Baby whales can also strand if separated from their mothers and cannot survive without them.

“Whenever a whale strands, people are advised to stay away from the animal. Whales can carry zoonotic diseases, so people are advised never to touch them.

“People must be aware that if a whale is stranded in shallow water, sharks may be present. People may feel compelled to assist the animal, but personal safety must come first.”

All sightings of stranded marine life, including whales, should be reported immediately to the DES on 1300 130 372 or to the relevant local council.