A beached sperm whale was euthanized in Madiera beach near the shore of John's Pass, officials said Thursday.Residents watched as beached whale rescue came to a sad end, MyNews13 reported Oct. 31.
The euthanasia of the beached whale was said to be the humane approach in dealing with the giant's condition, according to authorities.
"The animal is in extremely poor body condition, listed as emaciated, prior to death at this stage," University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine Dr. Mike Walsh said. "The fact that it came to shore basically means it is going to die on its own."
According to MyNews13, the giant whale was approximately 30 to 35 feet in length and it was situated at about 20 yards from the shore.
"Whales are usually stranded because there is something wrong with them health wise and so we are monitoring this whale right now," Kevin Baxter said.
Based on the recounts of Baxter, the beached sperm whale was spotted earlier near the beach at 7:30 a.m. and it has not moved from its spot since.
Biologists were enlisted to monitor the giant's condition while law enforcement protected the scene from inquisitive spectators.
After it was euthanized, the whale was towed to an isolated facility where a research team will be studying its body.
"Our goal is to make sure the animal will not suffer but to also make sure we learn as much as we can for future events," Walsh said, adding the main question that needs to be answered: "Was it a natural cause, a toxic cause?"
The euthanasia of the humungous whale was a very tough scene to witness according to several residents, but it was for the best.
"It's the best thing that could've happened. No sense in taking it out and letting it suffer," resident Jeff Ryan said.
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