Whale euthanized after beaching itself in Sanibel

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Photo via viewer Greg DiRenzo.

SANIBEL, Fla. An 8-foot whale was euthanized Wednesday after beaching itself on Lighthouse Beach, despite several attempts to save it.

It appeared to be either a pygmy or dwarf sperm whale, according the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

A necropsy will be performed to determine the whale’s age, FWC PIO officer Brian Norris said.

It is unclear why the whale beached itself.

Those who see a stranded whale or dolphin are urged not to push them back into the water, as it’s usually a sign the animal is in distress.

Instead, call the FWC hotline at 863-648-3200.

No further information is immediately available.

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