Recent whale stranding on the West coast of Sri Lanka

Whale stranding occurs on the west coast during the SW monsoon period. Most carcasses that wash shore are in poor condition as they have been floating at sea for extended periods. The strong winds coupled with monsoon currents bring these floating carcasses to shore. Two such strandings were recorded from the west coast during the month of June 2009.

Baleen whale carcass in Chilaw on 13 June 2009

The carcass of a baleen whale was washed ashore on the 13th June 09 at Karukkapane Beach in Chilaw. The length of the carcass was about 8 meters and it was identified as a species belonging to the group of roqual whales (Baleen whales). Further identification was not possible due to the poor condition of the carcass.

Sperm whale carcass in Wellawatte, Colombo on 16 June 2009

The carcass of a Sperm Whale was washed ashore close to the railway station at Wellawatte on 16th June 2009. The length of this animal was estimated to be about 9 meters. This carcass was in a highly decomposed state. Skin and blubber samples were taken from the Sperm Whale for further analysis.