MIAMI — The Coast Guard is assisting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Everglades National Park officials in the safe guarding of approximately 11 pilot whales that are beached on the west side of Everglades National Park.
A pod of pilot whales swims off the coast of Everglades National Park, Fla., Dec. 5, 2013. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Mark Barney
The Coast Guard was notified Wednesday by park officials that the whales were beached and requested Coast Guard assistance in ensuring the safety of the whales in their vulnerable state. The Coast Guard has since established a safety zone around the whales enforced by the Coast Guard Cutter Sawfish. A temporary flight restriction has also been established in the area.
A Coast Guard Air Station Miami MH-65 helicopter crew flew overhead with a NOAA biologist who determined that at least 33 whales were alive and 11 were deceased.
The Coast Guard will continue to assist NOAA as requested.
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