By Marisol Bo-oc | 01:05 PM December 18, 2024
The Bureau Of Fisheries And Aquatic Resources (BFAR)-Central Visayas said on Wednesday that a giant sperm whale was found dead floating Banacon Island in Getafe town, Bohol.
In statement, BFAR said the deceased animal has been identified as a Sperm Whale (๐๐ฉ๐บ๐ด๐ฆ๐ต๐ฆ๐ณ ๐ฎ๐ข๐ค๐ณ๐ฐ๐ค๐ฆ๐ฑ๐ฉ๐ข๐ญ๐ถ๐ด).
It has a total length of 14.40 meters, a girth of 6.0 meters, a 2.6 meters fluke, and 1.23 meters flippers.
It was discovered drifting and lifeless in the waters off Banacon Island on Monday, December 16, 2024.
BFAR said following a joint investigation conducted on December 17, 2024, by the Provincial Fishery Office โ Bohol, the Bohol Provincial Environment Management Office (BPEMO), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the local government unit (LGU) of Getafe, it was revealed that the carcass showed significant injuries, particularly in the ventral region.
However, these injuries are unlikely to be the cause of death. It is possible that the injuries occurred while the animal was drifting lifeless.
The public is advised to avoid the carcass for safety reasons. Handling or coming into close contact with the remains could pose health risks, as decaying animal carcasses may carry harmful bacteria, parasites, or other pathogens.
Additionally, the situation may require further investigation by authorities to determine the cause of death. For public safety, it is best to stay clear of the area until proper protocols are followed.
The BFAR and its partner agencies continue to monitor the situation and will implement necessary measures to ensure the protection of marine wildlife in the area.
