Dead Whale Safely Removed From Comino

A juvenile sperm whale discovered near Comino earlier this week has been confirmed to measure 7.9 metres and was already in an advanced state of decomposition, according to the Environment and Resources Authority.

The whale was first reported on the small island on Tuesday, prompting marine biologists to take samples from the carcass in order to gather scientific data and potentially determine the cause of death.

In a statement, ERA confirmed that the animal had been identified as a juvenile sperm whale.

Authorities noted that the condition of the carcass indicated that the whale had likely been dead for some time before it was discovered.

Following the examination, the whale was safely removed from the area to prevent further environmental impact and to allow the site to be cleared.

ERA thanked several entities that assisted with the operation, including the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM), Nature Trust Malta, and researchers from the University of Malta.

Samples collected from the whale will now be analysed by specialists, with findings expected to contribute to ongoing research into marine life and strandings in Maltese waters.

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Photo Source: ERA