Numerous pilot whales, recognized for their close social ties, became stranded on a Western Australian coastline. Officials feared that euthanizing many of them might be necessary.

Marine biologists scrambled on Thursday to rescue dozens of pilot whales that had become stranded in shallow waters along the Western Australian coast.

Up to 160 whales were trapped in the shallow waters at Toby's Inlet in Geographe Bay, located approximately a three-hour drive south of Perth, as reported by the Western Australia Department of Biodiversity, Conservation, and Attractions.

Pilot whales are recognized for their close social connections, hence when one encounters trouble and becomes stranded, others in the pod frequently follow suit, according to the university.

"We understand there are four pods of up to 160 pilot whales in total spread across about 500 meters. Unfortunately, 26 whales that stranded on the beach have died," a department spokesperson stated.

"A team of experienced staff including wildlife officers, marine scientists, and veterinarians are on site or on their way," the Parks and Wildlife Service affirmed in a statement. They will endeavor to guide the pilot whales back to deep waters.

However, officials expressed concern that many of the creatures might have to be euthanized.

"These events usually result in the beached animals having to be euthanized as the most humane outcome," the Wildlife Service explained. "We always hope for the best outcome."

While scientists do not fully understand why they occur, mass strandings of pilot whales are not uncommon in Australia and New Zealand.

In 2022, around 500 pilot whales died after beaching on New Zealand's remote Chatham Islands.

Officials urged the public not to attempt to rescue the whales independently.