Bryde’s whale carcass found among rocks off Chon Buri

A large Bryde's whale carcass was discovered on August 17, August 18 behind Samae San Island in Chon Buri province, Thailand. The carcass was located among rocks and quickly drew attention from residents, fishermen and conservation groups. The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) confirmed the identification of the whale species, but its sex, age and cause of death have not yet been determined.

The carcass was bloated and decomposing, with skin damage from sun exposure. A recovery operation is planned for the following day, with maritime agencies, the Royal Thai Navy, marine veterinarians and conservation teams collaborating to move the whale to Samae San subdistrict on the coast. Experts will analyze tissue and biological samples, including conducting genetic comparisons, to determine the cause of death.

If human involvement or a potentially illegal incident is found, authorities will investigate accordingly. Once the examination is complete, the whale will be handled and possibly preserved as a scientific and educational resource. Authorities encourage reporting of any rare or stranded marine animals to the DMCR or its 1362 hotline for proper investigation and assistance.