Panaji: A rare false killer whale measuring more than 5m was successfully rescued and refloated at Mandrem beach on Sunday, following a coordinated effort.The rescue involved representatives of the forest department, ReefWatch Marine Conservation, Drishti Marine lifeguards, the Indian Coast Guard, ResQ, Terra Conscious, wildlife rescuers, the Mandrem surfing community and local fishermen.The whale, which had remained stranded for an extended period, was found in a visibly weak and emaciated condition. Drishti lifeguards and local fishermen initially safeguarded the animal while awaiting veterinary assistance. The lifeguards ensured that its skin remained wet, protected it from direct sunlight and took precautions to minimise further stress and injuries.ReefWatch’s veterinary team subsequently assessed the animal, administered fluids and necessary medication, and collected blood samples for laboratory analysis to investigate possible underlying health conditions that may have contributed to the stranding.After the whale was stabilised, veterinarians, lifeguards, Coast Guard personnel, ResQ members and fishermen worked together to guide it back into the water. The marine animal regained sufficient strength to swim independently towards deeper waters.According to ReefWatch Marine Conservation, this was only the fourth reported false killer whale along India’s west coast in the past decade.However, conservationists cautioned that the successful refloating does not necessarily indicate full recovery, as the whale’s overall health and prognosis remain uncertain.Coastal response teams and fishing communities across Goa, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Kerala have been alerted to report further sightings or any possible restranding.
