Mass Stranding Linked to Difficult Birth
A significant stranding event involving long-finned pilot whales in Lewis is believed to have been initiated by a female whale experiencing a challenging birth, according to a recent report.
In July 2023, more than 50 whales died after encountering difficulties in Tolsta Bay.
Experts have suggested that the pod's "strong social cohesion" may have caused the group to follow the distressed female into shallow waters.
Investigation Findings
The Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme (SMASS) conducted an investigation and found that the whales were generally in good health.
Volunteers from British Divers Marine Life Rescue and other groups made efforts to rescue some of the stranded pilot whales.
SMASS's report identified that a mature female had undergone a difficult birth, which scientists believe could be a "possible social trigger for the stranding."
"Strong social cohesion may have then led the entire group to follow the distressed individual into shallow waters.
Once stranded, the animals were unable to refloat themselves due to a combination of surf generated by onshore winds and the soft sand substrate on the beach."
About Long-Finned Pilot Whales
Long-finned pilot whales are large dolphins known for their close social bonds. Whale and Dolphin Conservation describes them as having "incredibly strong bonds," which may explain the group's collective behavior during the stranding event.
