Rare sighting: stranded dwarf sperm whale rescued in Calayan, Cagayan

Calayan, Cagayan – A 1.62-meter-long dwarf sperm whale found washed ashore in Naguilian, Calayan, Cagayan was rescued and returned to the sea on Thursday, March 7.

It is not every day that one can see or even notice a dwarf sperm whale.

Fortunately, the marine animal was discovered by a local in the area, who promptly reported it to barangay officials.

Barangay officials likewise notified the Philippine Coast Guard Camiguin substation detachment and the Maritime Police about the incident.

Dwarf sperm whales are the smallest of the whale species and resemble pygmy sperm whales in many ways. Its dorsal fin is what makes it unique.

While the pygmy whale has a rounder, smaller hook on its fin behind its mid-back, the dwarf whale has a conspicuous, falcate fin.

With the help of Doctor Jo Marie Acebes of Balyena.org, an examination was made and found out it was a female sperm whale. It was found out that the sperm whale sustained an injury to its pelvic area.

After appropriate medical treatment, the whale was later released to its natural habitat.

To recall, it was May last year when a dead whale was also washed ashore in Cagayan, particularly in Sta. Ana. This was after the province experienced heavy rain and strong winds due to Typhoon Betty.