After 48 hours aground, a humpback whale was euthanized this Friday (7) in Jaguaruna, south of Santa Catarina. The decision was made by researchers and experts after several unsuccessful attempts to save the animal.

A 12-ton whale stranded on Jaguaruna Beach is being euthanized. Photo: Disclosure/ND

The whale ran aground Wednesday morning (5) on Balneario Esplanada beach. On the same day, environmentalists, fishermen, volunteers and various institutions mobilized to release the animal, but to no avail.

Rescue Mobilization – Video: Disclosure/ND

On Thursday (6) there was also an attempt to tow the whale into the ocean using boats, but the mission was aborted due to deteriorating weather conditions that caused 2 and 3 meter waves and gales.

Due to poor weather conditions and the exhaustion of the animal, stuck for two days in place, the experts concluded that the euthanasia of the whale, which took place this morning, would be the ethical and correct procedure.

Removal of whales after a veterinary procedure – Video: Disclosure/ND

An autopsy is currently underway to determine the cause of the stranding and to collect samples before recovering the whale, which is approximately 11 meters long and weighs 12 tons, according to biologist Karina Groh of the Australian Institute.

The animal must be buried on the beach in accordance with the APA da Baleia Franca Beaching and Entanglement of Cetaceans Protocol. There is no word yet on how long the procedure will take.