A whale spotted between Fremantle and Swanbourne yesterday. Picture: Twitter\/Surf Lifesaving WA <\/p>\n
A five-metre beaked whale has been spotted just 20 metres offshore at popular Perth beaches this week, prompting a warning for beachgoers to be careful. <\/p>\n
The Department of Parks and Wildlife says it is monitoring the whale, which has been sighted between Cottesloe and Fremantle beaches for several days. <\/p>\n
Senior marine wildlife officer Doug Coughran said it was rare for such an animal to be seen so close to Perth shores, and it could be due to illness. <\/p>\n
\"We will continue to monitor the situation, but we will not intervene unless it comes ashore,\" he said. <\/p>\n
\"Obviously we understand the curiosity beachgoers may have to get close to the animal, however we would like to remind the public that they should maintain a safe distance of 30m at all times in the water to ensure the whale's wellbeing is not compromised.\" <\/p>\n
To report any sick or injured animals, call the Wildcare Helpline on 9474 9055. <\/p>\n
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Whale swims close to Perth beaches<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" A whale spotted between Fremantle and Swanbourne yesterday. Picture: Twitter\/Surf Lifesaving WA A five-metre beaked whale has been spotted just 20 metres offshore at popular Perth beaches this week, prompting a warning for beachgoers to be careful Continue reading