A rescue effort is underway to save a stranded killer whale in Tasmania's north.
The adult male, which weighs several tons, has been stranded on Badger Beach near the mouth of the Tamar River since this morning.
The Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE) has mounted a response to save the animal, with a team of whale rescue staff and volunteers working through the day.
A member of the public reported the beached whale to local police, who contacted DPIPWE's whale hotline.
Rachel Alderman from the DPIPWE wildlife management branch is hoping an incoming tide tonight will help with the rescue, but said it was likely to be "challenging".
"Tonight we are eyeing off a tide which is coming in, we have got machinery on the beach and people digging holes and channels to help create access for the whale to the water," she said.
"However, there is every possibility this could go for a while."
Rescuers were able to get to the whale early and have kept it wet and shaded from the heat throughout the day, keeping the whale in good health.
"When you have an animal in those conditions they can actually last quite a long time on the beach," Dr Alderman said.
Dr Alderman said it was rare for killer whales to become stranded.
"The reason for it having done so is unknown — however accidental stranding in shallow waters while pursuing prey is a possibility," she said.
The public is being asked to avoid the site in order for rescuers to have full access to the beach.
Any sightings of whale activity should be reported to the DPIPWE whale hotline, 0427 WHALES.
