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Anstruther in Fife sees mass stranding of pilot whales | Anstruther in Fife sees mass stranding of pilot whales |
(35 minutes later) | |
Animal rescue experts have been called to a mass stranding of whales on the east coast of Scotland. | Animal rescue experts have been called to a mass stranding of whales on the east coast of Scotland. |
More than 20 whales are thought to have died of about 30 that were stranded. | More than 20 whales are thought to have died of about 30 that were stranded. |
The coastguard said nine whales were being kept alive by vets from British Divers and Marine Life Rescue, with help from the emergency services. | The coastguard said nine whales were being kept alive by vets from British Divers and Marine Life Rescue, with help from the emergency services. |
The incident between Anstruther and Pittenweem in Fife involves pilot whales, each of them approximately 20ft (6m) long. | The incident between Anstruther and Pittenweem in Fife involves pilot whales, each of them approximately 20ft (6m) long. |
Forth coastguard were alerted to the incident at about 07:00 BST on Sunday. | Forth coastguard were alerted to the incident at about 07:00 BST on Sunday. |
Three of the stranded whales are believed to be young pups. | Three of the stranded whales are believed to be young pups. |
It is hoped four of the surviving mammals will be refloated at high tide on Sunday. | It is hoped four of the surviving mammals will be refloated at high tide on Sunday. |
A large number of bystanders gathered at the scene, and the coastguard urged the public to stay away to allow rescue teams to carry out their duties. | A large number of bystanders gathered at the scene, and the coastguard urged the public to stay away to allow rescue teams to carry out their duties. |
Coastguard teams from St Andrews and Leven, Anstruther lifeboat, and Fife Police are assisting with the incident. | Coastguard teams from St Andrews and Leven, Anstruther lifeboat, and Fife Police are assisting with the incident. |
A further 24 pilot whales, thought to be from the same pod, were spotted in shallow water about three miles away at Cellardyke. | |
They have been monitored for signs that they are in danger of stranding. | |
High tide in the area will be at 16:30 BST. |