'Very Sick' Beached Sperm Whale to Be Euthanized in South Carolina

Euthanasia has been https://www.facebook.com/townofhhi/posts/1078648704296481" "determined to be the most humane option" for a whale that was found washed ashore on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, on May 4. According to the https://www.facebook.com/townofhhi/posts/1078648704296481" Town of Hilton Head Island , the whale was still alive when found, and trained professionals, including experts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), were on site to monitor and care for the animal. "When whales beach themselves, it's often because they are already seriously ill or injured. In this case, euthanasia has been determined to be the most humane option," they said. "We understand how difficult this is to witness, and we appreciate the community's compassion and patience." Footage here, captured by Lacey Thomas, shows onlookers at Coligny Beach next to what she called the "very sick" whale. Thomas said people were trying to "keep him wet and comfortable". Town officials said euthanasia medication was being transported from Florida. https://www.wtoc.com/2025/05/05/its-very-skinny-officials-give-updates-community-reacts-rare-sperm-whale-beached-hilton-head-island/" Local media , citing Clay George, a marine animal biologist with NOAA, reported that the whale appeared malnourished and was possibly suffering from a disease or injury. (Footage by Lacey Thomas/Storyful via Getty Images UGC)