Body of pilot whale removed from beach

The stranded whale was put to sleep by vets

The beached whale has now been removed
Author: Molly CrossleyPublished 6th Oct 2024

A stranded pilot whale had to be put to sleep after it struggled with its injuries after being washed up at West Wight Beach, near Brook.

The decision was taken by a Sandown vet to put the 400lb animal to sleep yesterday afternoon after extensive efforts made by rescuers to save it.

The animal has now been recovered from the area and the cause of death will be investigated.

The council will be kept up to date with the outcome of the investigation by the National Zoological Society.

Multiple attempts were made to rescue the mammal, with the coastguard rescue teams, British Divers Marine Life Rescue group and members of the public all working together to try and save the animal.

Specialist disposal was organised by the council, however the tide made the retrieval more difficult than expected.