Young Sperm Whale Found Dead in Tenerife; Necropsy Planned
Authorities in Tenerife successfully recovered the carcass of a young sperm whale found in the Las Puntitas swimming area of El Médano to conduct a necropsy and investigate the cause of death.
The management of marine wildlife strandings in the Canary Islands has come into focus again following a recent incident in Granadilla de Abona. Local reports confirm that a young sperm whale was found dead in the Las Puntitas swimming area of El Médano, prompting an emergency response last Sunday afternoon.
The operation began around 3:00 p.m., requiring close coordination between local municipal police and veterinary experts from the La Tahonilla wildlife recovery center, which is managed by the Tenerife Island Council. Their joint efforts were necessary to safely recover and remove the carcass, ensuring the area remained safe for swimmers.
Strandings like this are common in the Canary Islands due to the region's geography and deep waters. When they occur, authorities follow specific protocols to perform a necropsy. These examinations are vital for scientists, as they help determine if the animal died from natural causes, a collision with a ship, or the ingestion of plastic. This data is essential for monitoring the health of whale populations in the area and supports ongoing regional marine conservation efforts.