Al Wusta – Environment Authority has launched an investigation into the death of an Arabian Sea humpback whale found off the coast of Al Jazir in Al Wusta on Tuesday.

The rare and endangered mammal’s death is being examined in collaboration with multiple organisations to determine the cause and ensure scientific documentation.

The investigation is being conducted in coordination with the Wali’s Office, Royal Oman Police, and Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources. ‘The goal is to identify the whale and determine the cause of its death in a systematic and scientific manner,’ the authority stated.

Due to the challenging nature of the area, the authority has taken necessary steps to collect data, measurements and samples with support from Future Seas Company to ensure smooth execution. ‘The investigation is ongoing, and once it is completed, the whale will be buried at a suitable site.’

The Arabian Sea Humpback Whale is classified as rare and endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List. It is one of 20 whale species found in Omani waters, as confirmed by satellite tracking studies.

Environment Authority expressed its appreciation to all participating entities and local communities for their support and awareness efforts in handling such incidents.