Avril Mocke, NSRI Lamberts Bay station commander, said: At 11h26, Friday, 2 June, NSRI Lamberts Bay duty crew were alerted to Pygmy Sperm whale beached at Lamberts Bay Beach inside of the small breakwater.
The whale was alive and appeared to have laceration injuries possibly from drifting over rocks before beaching.
The West Coast Marine Animal Stranding Network was alerted.
NSRI rescue swimmers swam the whale out to sea in an effort to assist the whale back into the ocean.
It appeared that the animal would survive but sadly the whale beached again a short time later.
TNPA (Transnet National Ports Authority) Port Control were alerted.
The Department of Environment attended at the scene with the SA Police Services. The whale was humanely euthanised and the whale carcass was removed by the authorities.
The effort by all involved to try to save the whale is commended.

Devil Blade
Fun South African Fact: Travel to Tsitsikamma, on the border of the Western Cape and Eastern Cape to visit the world’s highest commercial bungee jump! Those who are brave enough can take the 216-meter jump off the Bloukrans Bridge and soar through the air towards the Bloukrans River below. Definitely a must for thrill-seekers and adrenaline-junkies!
Star Sword
I am intrigued by your article – thank you for your efforts.