Stranded whales: Numbers on the rise around UK shores
The number of whales and dolphins washing up around the UK coastline has risen, according to new figures.
In 2017 alone, 1,000 animals were stranded – more than in any year since records began.
A total of 4,896 whales, dolphins and porpoises died on beaches between 2011 and 2017 – up 15% on the previous seven years.
Scientists found a number of causes for the deaths, including infectious diseases, fishing and plastic.