Weakened sperm whale spotted off Den Helder coast

A sperm whale was spotted in the North Sea, just off the coast of Den Helder on Monday morning. By Monday evening the whale was still in the same area. According to SOS Dolfijn, the animal is likely disoriented or sick and weakened, the rescue organization said on its website.

The whale was first spotted by crew members of a ship off the coast near Julianadorp around 7:30 a.m. The Coast Guard took a photo and sent it to SOS Dolfijn, who identified it as a sperm whale.

According to SOS Dolfijn, the animal is in a "difficult situation". The waters of the North Sea aren't deep enough for a whale of that size, and there is not enough food for it. The organization informed the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the stranding coordinator, as is protocol when whales larger than 3 meters get into trouble. At the request of the Ministry, SOS Dolfijn and the Coast Guard are keeping an eye on the animal.

"The first observations provide an image of an emaciated, weakened and possibly disoriented animal", according to SOS Dolfijn. It's a large adult male, estimated at between 15 and 18 meters in length

Shipping traffic was informed about the presence of the whale and to redirect their routes so they stay away from it. Still the situation of the animal is worrisome, SOS Dolfijn said. "The sperm whale hardly moved during the entire day, which is deviant behavior for a whale. Moreover it is very difficult for a sperm whale in the North Sea to find the right way back to its own habitat."

According to the organization, it makes little sense to try and chase the animal in the right direction. The sperm whale is a wild animal and can not easily be steered in the right direction. This will also put extra stress on the whale. SOS Dolfijn is therefore keeping an eye on the whale, and hoping that it finds its own way. The situation will be reassessed on Tuesday.

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