More than 100 long-finned pilot whales that became stranded on the western Australian coast on Thursday have miraculously returned to sea, thanks to the efforts of dedicated rescuers. Tragically, 31 of the whales did not survive the ordeal, according to whale researcher Ian Wiese.

Wiese, alongside hundreds of volunteers, rushed to Toby's Inlet near the tourist town of Dunsborough to lend a hand in the rescue operation. "There were well over 200 along the beach here and just nearby and there's 31, I think, deceased but the rest got away, which is an amazing story," Wiese shared with Australian Broadcasting Corp.

With initial reports stating that up to 160 whales had become stranded, a team comprising wildlife officers, marine scientists, and veterinarians arrived at the scene to assess the situation. Sadly, they confirmed that 26 of the whales had already perished. However, there was a glimmer of hope as 20 whales remained in a pod nearly a mile offshore, while 110 formed another pod closer to the beach.

Pia Courtis, a regional wildlife officer, acknowledged the concerning nature of the situation, mentioning that the pod of 110 whales appeared to be "sticking together offshore" and might eventually approach the beach. Courtis also stated that the fate of beached pilot whales was often unfavorable, as high mortality rates were typically observed in such cases.

Despite the potential challenges, the rescuers persisted in their efforts to save the stranded whales. Volunteers comforted the distressed animals and ensured that their heads remained above water to facilitate breathing. After an hour or so, to the relief of everyone involved, the surviving whales managed to make their way back to the safety of the ocean.

There is always the uncertainty of whether the pilot whales may choose to return to shore on another nearby beach. However, Wiese expressed optimism that they would not do so. The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions has yet to officially confirm the successful rescues.

Unfortunately, this incident marks the second stranding of long-finned pilot whales in the area in recent months. In July, almost 100 of these whales lost their lives or had to be euthanized following a similar incident on Cheynes Beach, southeast of Dunsborough.

Based on previous strandings, including the 2023 event at Cheynes Beach, the department stated that euthanizing beached whales is often considered the most humane option. Nonetheless, they emphasized their hope for the best outcome whenever such a situation arises.

Wiese, who has responded to three mass strandings in the past, described Thursday's events as the most successful outcome he has witnessed so far. He noted that in most cases, only a small number of whales can be saved out of a larger group that becomes stranded.

The cause behind whale strandings remains unknown, although scientists speculate that their navigation systems can be confused by gently sloping, sandy beaches. Theories suggesting that they may be evading predators or following a sick leader ashore have also been presented, while human-made undersea noise is another potential interference with their natural navigation abilities.

This heartening story of rescue and survival provides a glimmer of hope amidst the tragic loss of marine life. As efforts to understand and protect these magnificent creatures continue, it remains essential to find ways to prevent such strandings and mitigate any potential threats to their existence.