Unfortunately, guest, the word harassing is used very loosely when in reference to an endangered species. For certain animals, including the species of whale that washed up on BHI, being within a few thousand feet of the animal can be considered harassment. Though these people meant well, animals have instincts that humans don't have. Usually when a whale beaches itself it is either sick or injured. They beach themselves to avoid being attacked by stronger, healthier animals. By touching this animal and forcing it back in the water, they were in fact harassing it. The correct course of action is calling the Marine Stranding Team at UNCW, who, with the help of a veterinarian, makes the call to attempt to save the animal or euthanize in a way that limits pain and suffering.