Necropsy Reveals Bryde’s Whale Died from Vessel Collision in Samut Prakan

On September 1, 2026, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) released the findings of a necropsy performed on a Bryde’s whale discovered stranded near the Khlong Sao Thong community in Bang Pu, Samut Prakan, on August 31. According to Khaosod Online, the whale was a pre-reproductive male measuring 10.70 meters in length.

While the carcass was in a state of decomposition, the examination revealed significant internal trauma. Experts identified bruising and hemorrhaging in the head region, with fragments of the upper jaw bone embedded in the tissue, indicating a collision with a vessel. The whale was otherwise in good physical condition prior to the incident, with a healthy layer of blubber.

For residents and visitors in coastal areas, this incident highlights the ongoing risks posed to marine life by maritime traffic. The DMCR has announced plans to increase monitoring of shipping routes to mitigate the risk of future collisions with rare marine animals. While the cause of death has been attributed to the vessel strike, the investigation into the specific circumstances of the collision remains ongoing. Authorities are currently focusing on surveillance to protect the local marine ecosystem.