TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A tragic scene unfolded on the shores of Haikou Beach (海口沙灘) in Pingtung County's Checheng Township (車城鄉) as 11 pygmy killer whales stranded early Tuesday (Feb. 24). Four whales perished despite the swift rescue operation initiated by the Coast Guard Administration (海巡署) following a local resident's alert.
The Coast Guard Administration reported that the whales were likely stranded due to a school of large fish pursuing them or a navigational error by their leader. Responding quickly, the Patrol Area Office 8 (海巡署第八巡防區指揮部) mobilized rescue teams equipped with specialized gear. They deployed 11 vehicles and 26 personnel to support rescue efforts and safeguard the remaining 7 whales.
Rescue teams implemented emergency measures to ensure the whales' survival, including hydration, cooling, and continuous monitoring of their vital signs. Officials enforced crowd control to prevent disturbances or mishandling by onlookers. National Cheng Kung University (國立成功大學) Marine Biology and Cetacean Research Center took over the subsequent professional care and evaluation.
The Southern Branch Sixth Coast Patrol Corps urged the public to adhere to the "three musts and four don'ts" principle when encountering stranded cetaceans. These guidelines include keeping the animal upright, hydrated, and monitoring its breathing and heartbeat. People should also avoid exposing the animal to sunlight, approaching its head or tail, or engaging in loud activities. The public can report stranded cetaceans by calling the 118 Coast Guard hotline for professional assistance.