Long-finned pilot whales strand in groups more than almost any other cetacean. Strandings cause acute suffering, and welfare-focused responses are essential.
Stranded pilot whales experience dehydration, skin damage from sun and air exposure, and crushing of internal organs by their own body weight. Attempts to refloat animals that are unfit may prolong suffering. Live strandings are medical emergencies. Faroe Islands drive hunts (grindadrap) cause documented suffering. Acoustic trauma from naval sonar may disorient and strand deep-diving whales.