Dwarf Sperm Whale Stranded in Penghu Successfully Released

The waters of Penghu are a migratory path for cetaceans. Following the recent stranding of three pantropical spotted dolphins, a dwarf sperm whale was found stranded today at the old port of Chima in Xiyu. The Penghu County Government's Agriculture and Fisheries Bureau used a recreational fishing boat to transport the whale offshore for release. The Coast Guard's 7th Shore Patrol Team discovered the live whale during a routine patrol and immediately notified the Ocean Conservation Administration and the local bureau. The Cetacean Association confirmed the species. The patrol team followed the 'three dos and four don'ts' principle for stranding rescue: do keep it upright, keep it moist, and record vital signs; don't expose it to wind and sun, stand at the head or tail, pull or roll the animal, or make loud noises. Officials confirmed the whale had no major injuries, only minor fin wounds, and was in stable condition. It was successfully released near noon. The Coast Guard urges the public to call the 118 hotline if they encounter stranded marine life.