Kota Kinabalu: Authorities have begun a detailed analysis to determine the cause of death of a juvenile whale found stranded at Beach 3, Tanjung Aru, after it was confirmed dead on Saturday.
Sabah Wildlife Department Director Mohd Soffian Abu Bakar said biological samples collected from the carcass have been sent to the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park Clinic for necropsy.
“The samples have been submitted for analysis to identify the cause of death, whether it is due to natural factors, separation from its mother, or human-related causes,” he said.
The whale, believed to be a Bryde’s whale, was first sighted in shallow waters off Tanjung Aru on March 19 before being guided back to deeper waters by enforcement personnel.
However, it was spotted the following day near Sutera Harbour Marina, raising concerns over its condition before it eventually re-stranded and died.
“It was first detected in shallow waters and successfully guided back to sea. Its reappearance the next day indicates the animal may have been in a weakened state or injured,” Mohd Soffian said.
Field teams carried out operations at the site between 3.30pm and 6pm on Saturday, including securing the area and collecting morphological data and biological samples.
“We have completed the field operation, including taking measurements and samples, and the area was secured to ensure public safety,” he said.
The Ministry is expected to be informed once the necropsy report is finalised.
