An entire pod of 55 pilot whales has died after a mass stranding on a beach

55 whales died 

An entire pod of 55 pilot whales has died after a mass stranding on a beach in the Scottish islands. The mammals washed onto Traigh Mhor beach at North Tolsta on the Isle of Lewis at around 7am on Sunday. The British Divers Marine Life Rescue, a marine charity, estimated that only 15 had initially survived.

A statement said: “At about 15:30, the local vet along with the Coastguard, Fire and Rescue, and a forensics vet came to the conclusion that the shallow beach and rough wave conditions made it too unsafe to refloat the remaining animals.

“Considering how long the pilot whales had been out of the water in addition to the poor conditions, it was decided they should be euthanised on welfare grounds.” READ MORE: Keir Starmer faces fierce criticism following 'painful' BBC interview headtopics.cochief.

Members of the community, Stornoway Coastguard, Stornoway and Shawbost Fire and Rescue, the Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme, the Scottish SPCA and Civil Air Support were all involved in the rescue effort.

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