Mystery as at least 14 sperm whales are found dead and covered in blood

At least 14 sperm whales have died after they became stranded on King Island, off Tasmania’s north-west coast. 

The whales washed ashore on Monday, according to Tasmania’s Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

The department confirmed on Tuesday that 14 whale carcasses were found at a local fishing spot.

The whales became stranded at a local fishing area off the island’s west coast on Monday

A plane is scheduled to fly over the island to check for more beached whales.

Wldlife scientist Vanessa Pirotta said what caused the whales to head towards the shore remained ‘a complete mystery’.  

‘We simply do not know why this happens,’ she told the ABC.

‘That’s the million-dollar question every time this kind of event happens.’

Dr Pirotta said the stranding could have been caused by a navigation error, or the group following one whale heading towards the shore.

The Department of Natural Resources and Environment said it was not unusual to see sperm whales in the area.

‘While further inquiries are yet to be carried out, it is possible the whales were part of the same bachelor pod,’ a spokesperson told the public broadcaster.

The whales were young males, according to Tasmania’s Department of Natural Resources and Environment 

It’s unknown why the whales washed ashore but it could’ve been due to a navigation error 

Residents have been advised to stay away from the area. 

‘Members of the public are reminded it is an offence to interfere with protected wildlife, including being in possession of parts of a dead whale.’

Swimmers and surfers have also been warned to avoid the west coast of King Island as whale carcasses can attract sharks.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

The department said it was not unusual to see sperm whales off the coast of King Island