Whale carcass floating off South Cottesloe Beach prompts shark warning

A whale carcass floating off a popular Perth beach has prompted a warning as sharks are attracted to the area.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development issued the alert for South Cottesloe Beach after a member of the public spotted the whale carcass about 9.20am on Thursday.

The department said it was common for sharks to be present off the beach throughout the year but the extra attraction of a carcass meant people should exercise extra caution.

The Town of Cottelsoe has closed the beach and is working with the Department of Biodiversity Conversation and Attractions to remove the carcass.

WHAT TO DO

• Take additional caution in the South Cottesloe Beach area.
• Adhere to beach closures advised by Local Government Rangers, Parks and Wildlife Service officers or Surf Life Saving WA.
• Use your Sea Sense and stay informed by checking for shark activity on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app or Surf Life Saving WA’s Twitter feed.
• If you see a shark, report it to Water Police on 9442 8600. All shark sighting information reported to Water Police is provided to land managers and relevant authorities and to the public on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app and Surf Life Saving WA Twitter feed.

EXTRA INFORMATION

• Switch on your Sea Sense and stay informed of shark activity information by checking the SharkSmart website — sharksmart.com.au/shark-activity
• Download the SharkSmart WA app or follow Surf Life Saving WA Twitter – twitter.com/SLSWA
• Check www.sharksmart.com.au/news for updates to this alert and to view other warnings and media releases