Dozens of whales found dead off Florida coast

81 false killer whales confirmed dead, 13 unaccounted for

(NOAA Fisheries)

EVERGLADES, Fla. – Dozens of whales have been found dead off the coast of South Florida in Everglades National Park.

NOAA says that of Monday afternoon, 81 false killer whales are confirmed dead among a group of 95 that stranded themselves over the weekend.

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Thirteen whales are unaccounted for, while one was seen alive.

The group beached off Hog Key in the western edge of the Everglades.

NOAA claims that this is the largest beaching of this species in the history of the state. Forty false killer whales beached themselves in 1989 in Cedar Key.

False killer whales are members of the dolphin family and reach lengths up to 20 feet.

NOAA has asked the public to stay away from the area and to keep boats a safe distance away.

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