Bhavanapadu, Andhra Pradesh: Another tragic incident unfolded as a lifeless sub-adult Bryde’s whale, measuring approximately 11 meters, was discovered ashore in Tekkali Range, Srikakulam district. This marks the second such occurrence within four months in the region.
Shantipriya Pandey, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), disclosed that the whale likely met its demise five to six days ago in the Bay of Bengal before being washed ashore. The cause of death is suspected to be either starvation or separation from its mother. The bloated condition of the whale’s belly suggests that it had been deceased for several days.
Expressing concern over this recurrent phenomenon, Pandey emphasized the need for further investigation into the deaths of Bryde’s whales in the region. In July, another whale was found stranded at Meghavaram village beach in Srikakulam district.
While acknowledging the limited control over marine waters, Pandey highlighted that, aquatic creatures including whales, are afforded maximum protection under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The Forest Department, in collaboration with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), which is conducting a survey in the area, aims to gain deeper insights into the heightened whale and whale-shark activities off the Srikakulam coast.
In adherence to standard operating procedures, the Forest Department plans to conduct a post-mortem on the whale’s carcass and ensure its proper burial.
