Rescue Of Whales Fife, A pod of 26 pilot whales was discovered at the base of steep cliffs in Pittenweem, near St Andrews, at about 7am on Sunday.
At high tide, ten of the whales were floated out to sea, however 16 of the whales, including four calves, have died.
It is believed the 20-feet long animals became stranded after following a sick animal onto shore.
Ali Jack, the Scottish co-ordinator of the British Divers Marine Life Rescue, said the surviving whales may die from stress or become stranded again.
"We are hopeful all the ten will survive - but I would say the chances are 50-50. It is up to the animals now. People here certainly couldn't have done more - they were magnificent."
Hundreds of people travelled to the scene to watch the rescue operation.