Mass stranding in UK

2026, September 20. UK, Northumberland, near Warkworth. A mass stranding of ~40 Long-finned black dolphins (pilot whales). They were seen displaying behaviour typical before a stranding event. These are not the same pod seen in the Thames River in previous days. Around 40 whales were guided offshore, but the whales stayed tightly grouped around a large, motionless individual. As darkness fell, herding had to stop for safety reasons. In the morning, initially no whales were sighted, but RSPB staff on Coquet Island reported up to a dozen stranded in extremely difficult rocky terrain. Six whales were located (five ashore, one afloat). Two confirmed dead. Assessments began while more rescue staff and equipment were mobilised. Access to Coquet Island is only possible a few hours around high tide, and no one can remain overnight, creating intense time pressure. Teams tried to refloat the live whales, but treacherous terrain, falling tide, and the animals’ size and strength made it unsafe and unsuccessful. BDMLR teams remain along the coast searching for other pod members who may strand and are prepared to assist any whales still healthy enough to refloat. BDMLR thanked volunteers, RSPB staff, Puffin Cruises for transport, and Civil Air Support for aerial searches. Updates to follow.

A report in the south of the UK, Dorset, Chesil, is that there are four dead dolphins (species unknown).

Also: Thames Event. A Long-finned black dolphin, a female measuring 4.5 metres, died on Canvey Island. An earlier death was also confirmed, with a female whale measuring around 3 metres found near East Tilbury.  

Image: BDMLR (Coquet Island)