Sperm whale stranded near Devonport in Tasmania's north-west

In short:

A large sperm whale is stranded in shallow waters at Turners Beach, west of Devonport, in Tasmania's north-west.

A local says rangers are present and keeping people out of the waters amid concerns about sharks. 

What's next?

The Department of Natural Resources and Environment says it is responding to the incident.

Authorities are responding to a large sperm whale found stranded in shallow waters west of Devonport on Tasmania's north-west coast.

Last night, Tasmania Police said they were managing the whale at Turners Beach, along with members of Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service.

Members of the public are asked to avoid the area and not enter the water or the incoming tide due to the "anticipated danger".

Turners Beach resident Haydon says it is a distressing scene.

"Unfortunately the whale is still stranded … there is unfortunately a lot of blood in the water," he said.

"There were about 100 residents here this morning looking on.

"Right now we've got two rangers here just basically babysitting the whale, making sure no-one goes in the water because of the risk of sharks."

A department of Natural Resources and Environment spokesperson said they were responding to the stranded sperm whale.

"The whale was reported to the marine mammal hotline by a member of the public late on Wednesday," they said.

"Marine Conservation Program wildlife experts and Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service staff are attending the site to assess the whale and appropriate response options.

"Whales are large, powerful animals. Members of the public are asked to keep their distance to maintain human safety and animal welfare.

"It is an offence to interfere with wildlife."

Stranded whales can be reported to the Marine Mammal Hotline on 0427 942 537.