Cause of Death Confirmed for Stranded Sperm Whale Found Near Sylt

Experts conclude the whale asphyxiated under its own weight after being stranded in shallow waters; further investigations into its condition continue.

• A 15-year-old sperm whale found dead near Sylt in February has been confirmed to have died from asphyxiation caused by its own weight after being stranded in shallow waters due to tidal conditions.
• The whale's echolocation system, designed for deep-sea navigation, likely failed in the shallow North Sea, contributing to its disorientation and stranding.
• Potential contributing factors to the stranding, such as climate change, disrupted magnetic fields, and ship traffic, are being explored by researchers.
• Scientists are conducting further analyses, including genetic and toxicological studies, to better understand the whale's condition and pollutant exposure.
• The whale's jawbone is being prepared for display at the Erlebniszentrum Naturgewalten in List, scheduled to open to the public in winter 2027/2028.

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Stern Stern Sächsische Zeitung