A pygmy sperm whale first appeared on the shores of Temples Beach on the evening of January 26. It was alive but severely weakened, located at the water's edge and barely moving. Local residents who found it noticed bruises and redness on the mammal's body but decided not to call specialists. Together with the police, they attempted to return the whale to the open sea.
Initially, the rescue operation seemed successful, but the next morning, the same sperm whale was found on the shore again, not far from its first appearance. Its condition had significantly worsened. It was completely exhausted and unable to resist the current that repeatedly brought it back to shallow waters.
This time, not only the police were called to the scene, but also representatives from the fisheries service. New attempts to return the animal to the ocean were unsuccessful, and it became clear that specialized help was needed.
The BKSDA Bali, a Balinese natural resource conservation service, as well as animal protection organizations, were involved in the situation. Vets confirmed that it was an adult dwarf sperm whale, about 210 centimeters long. The main theory was disorientation, which led the animal into shallow waters and trapped it.
After consultations, it was decided to evacuate the whale. It was transported to the JSI/JAAN rehabilitation center in Buleleng for further observation and treatment.
Jembrana police specifically reminded that upon discovering stranded marine animals, individuals should not attempt to take independent action. In such cases, it is recommended to contact the police directly or call 110 (available with a local SIM card) — this is Indonesia's 24/7 emergency hotline.
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