A rare Kogia species was found stranded by a team from the Dyer Island Conservation Trust, on Reconciliation Day (16th December 2025).
The team responded to a call about its stranding at De Gruis.
The team immediately went to collect important biological samples, from the animal, which measured just over 2 metres in length.
The foundation said it would take the information collected and contribute it to ongoing research on this poorly understood group of marine mammals.
No obvious cause of death could be determined at the scene.
Kogia species include the pygmy sperm whale (Kogia breviceps) and the dwarf sperm whale (Kogia sima). Until 1966, both were classified as a single species, but were later recognised as two distinct species.
Both Kogia species are currently listed as Data Deficient, due to the limited information available on their biology, distribution, and population size.
Important number if you come across stranded sea mammals: Dyer Island Conservation Trust team: +27 (0) 82 907 5607.
For penguin emergencies- Contact the Penguin Rescue Line at +27 (0) 72 598 7117. How to report the animal: Try to share the exact location and, if possible, include a clear photo.
Picture: ResearchGate