Sperm whale stranding on the Moray Firth

August 4th, 2008. A large 40ft plus long whale has been spotted in shallow water near Avoch on the Moray Firth near Inverness, Scotland. The whale was reported to be stranded earlier today but refloated without assistance on the incoming tide. The whale thought to be a Sperm Whale has been seen floating in a very lethargic manner in Avoch Bay.

Medics from British Divers Marine Life Rescue and members of the Whale & Dolphin Conservation Society are monitoring the whale from boats to help keep it safe from injury. BDMLR ask that boats in the area keep clear of the whale to help keep its stress levels to a minimum.

The condition of the whale is not thought to be good and the whale may strand again as the tide goes out later today. If the whale does strand it will be impossible to refloat the BDMLR simply don't have the equipment to refloat an animal of this size ( it may weigh as much as 40 tonnes)

BDMLR has sought veterinary advice but animals of this size are very difficult to control or rescue. It would also be impossible for a vet to euthanase a whale of this size. It is unfortunate that this creature will have to be left to die naturally without any assistance.