Australia
Australia, officially known as the Commonwealth of Australia, is a unique continent and a sovereign nation that occupies the entire Australian continent along with the island of Tasmania. As the smallest continent yet the sixth-largest country in terms of land area, Australia is strategically positioned between the Pacific and Indian Oceans in the Southern Hemisphere. The capital city, Canberra, sits nestled between major economic hubs such as Sydney and Melbourne, reflecting the country's modern urban development. Spanning nearly 2,500 miles from east to west and 2,000 miles from north to south, Australia showcases diverse geographical landscapes, including the flat Western Plateau, the Central Lowlands, and the notable Eastern Highlands. The relevance of understanding Australia extends beyond its geographical attributes; it includes vital aspects such as Australia visa requirements, immigration processes, and travel considerations. These factors are essential for travelers, students, and professionals seeking to engage with this culturally rich and environmentally diverse nation. Australia's robust economy boasts key industries like mining, agriculture, and services, contributing to its dynamic job market. Furthermore, with an increasing interest in travel to Australia, information such as the Australia travel guide, visa requirements, and the immigration process become critical for prospective visitors. With its rich biodiversity, iconic landmarks such as the Great Barrier Reef, and a unique blend of Indigenous and colonial history, Australia continues to be a focal point for those looking to explore new opportunities and experiences.
What is Australia's history of whale mass strandings in recent years?
Australia has experienced several significant whale mass strandings over the past few years. The largest incident occurred in 2020 when 470 long-finned pilot whales were found at Macquarie Harbour, followed by another 230 pilot whales stranding at the same location in 2022. Most of these whales died in both incidents. More recently, in 2023, about 160 pilot whales were found stranded on a beach in Western Australia, with many requiring euthanasia. The current false killer whale stranding in Tasmania marks the first major stranding for this specific species in 50 years, highlighting the ongoing issue of cetacean strandings along Australia's coastlines.
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