Broadford, United Kingdom - July 12, 2024

A distressing rescue effort unfolded as BDMLR (British Divers Marine Life Rescue) responded to reports of a minke whale in trouble just off Broadford's coast on Friday, July 12th. Kayakers initially discovered the whale, which had become stranded as the tide receded, leaving her trapped on sand and rocks.

The situation grew increasingly dire as the whale, identified as a female from photographs, thrashed violently in distress. BDMLR Medics, coordinating with the Coastguard and RNLI, monitored her condition closely, but the powerful movements of her tail fluke posed significant risks to approaching safely. Despite efforts to calm her and assess her length—estimated between 4 and 5 meters, indicating potential dependency on her mother—conditions remained perilous.

With the assistance of a pontoon mat and careful maneuvering, medics managed to reposition the whale and stabilize her breathing. Initial hopes rose as her respiratory rate decreased significantly. However, tragically, the whale succumbed shortly thereafter, despite efforts to support her through the incoming tide.

Compounding the heartbreak, limited resources delayed a full post-mortem examination by SMASS (Scottish Marine Animal Strandings Scheme), although crucial samples were collected to glean insights into the whale's health and the circumstances leading to her stranding.

BDMLR expressed profound gratitude to all involved, from the initial kayakers and local Coastguard to the RNLI's crucial support, and especially to their dedicated Medics who strove to provide comfort in the whale's final moments. The loss underscores the challenges and complexities of marine wildlife rescue efforts, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance and collaborative action in safeguarding marine mammals.