WILDLIFE rescuers are responding to a large male killer whale stranded live at Badger Beach, a rare occurrence for the marine mammal.
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A member of the public reported the whale to police on Saturday morning, who contacted the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment.
A rescue is under way and the public is urged to avoid approaching the animal.
Rachael Alderman, from the DPIPWE wildlife management branch, said it was possible that the whale became stranded while pursuing prey.
“This is a big male and the rescue will be challenging,” Dr Alderman said.
“Although the location at Badger Beach is accessible to the public, we ask that people remain away from the site of the stranding in order for the rescuers to do their best.
“Our staff have the specialist equipment and the training to assist the whale, and while it is natural for people to want to help, we remind everyone that public safety is the number one priority at all times.”
An experienced team of whale rescue staff has been sent to the location, about five kilometres west of the mouth of the Tamar River.
While killer whales are a common sight in Tasmanian waters, it is rare for them to become stranded on beaches.
If you spot injured or entangled marine animals, contact DPIPWE on 0427 WHALES.