ANIMALS
Sperm Whale Dies After Beaching On Sandbar Off Florida Coast
Sarasota County Sheriff's Office
A sperm whale that beached on a sandbar just off the Florida coast on Sunday has died, officials said Monday, after responders were unable to reach it due to high wind and surf.
The approximately 50-foot whale, estimated to weigh 50,000–70,000 pounds, was trapped on a sandbar about 50 yards offshore Service Club Park in Venice. Venice Police and the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office responded to assist Mote Marine Laboratory scientists, which identified the animal as a sperm whale.
Biologists with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission determined Sunday evening that due to rough surf and high winds, it was not possible to reach the whale to administer a sedative. The agency said responding Monday with more favorable weather conditions would be the best option.
As of Sunday evening, the whale was still alive, but had labored breathing, the City of Venice said in a statement. Scientists from multiple agencies monitored the whale’s breathing overnight. Police restricted the area around the whale to any vessels, and closed the park.
Unfortunately it appears this will likely be a recovery effort as nature takes its course, the city said Sunday evening.
In an update Monday morning, the city said the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration had confirmed the sperm whale was dead.
Service Club Park remained closed Monday morning as multiple agencies worked to clear the whale.
TMX contributed to this article.
