Heartbreaking Stranding of Cuvier’s Beaked Whale in Almería
On November 26th, 2024, an adult Cuvier’s beaked whale stranded alive on the coast of Almería, Spain. Despite the tireless efforts of the local NGO EQUINAC, the whale tragically passed away. This tragic incident underscores the urgent need to address the threats facing marine mammals and their habitats.
Investigating the Cause of the Whale's Stranding
Initially, the stranded whale appeared to be in good health, showing no visible signs of severe injury. It has since been transferred for necropsy to uncover the underlying cause of its stranding. Cuvier’s beaked whales are highly sensitive marine mammals, and determining what led to this incident is essential for future prevention efforts.
While the exact cause of the stranding remains uncertain, one possibility under investigation is exposure to extreme underwater noise. Military exercises and seismic surveys, often used in oil and gas exploration, generate intense impulsive noise known to harm marine life. Although seismic surveys are banned in Spanish waters, noise from activities in neighboring regions could still impact cetaceans like the Cuvier’s beaked whale.
International Efforts to Mitigate Risks for Whales
This tragic event coincides with a workshop in Toulon, France, facilitated by the Secretariats of the agreements to protect whales in the Mediterranean (ACCOBAMS) and North and Baltic Sea (ASCOBANS), with numerous navy representatives to discuss efforts to reduce the risk military activities, such as the employment of active sonar systems, pose to cetaceans. OceanCare’s noise pollution expert, Dr. Lindy Weilgart, is actively participating in these discussions to explore solutions and advocate for stronger protections.
A Call to Strengthen Protections for Vulnerable Species
Cuvier’s beaked whales are particularly susceptible to impulsive noise pollution, with similar strandings linked to military activities in the Mediterranean over the past two decades. This incident serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing threats these marine mammals face. OceanCare, alongside partners EQUINAC and Alnitak, remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting marine life and ensuring stronger measures are implemented to safeguard their habitats.
More information about the ongoing Workshop in Toulon, France: https://accobams.org/joint-accobams-ascobans-workshop-with-navies-on-underwater-noise-and-cetaceans/
© Photo: Eva Maria / Equinac
