Over one-third of 41 cetacean strandings in Hong Kong last year linked to human activities, NGO says
The Ocean Park Conservation Foundation Hong Kong (OPCFHK), together with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), handled a total of 41 cetacean strandings in 2024, the NGO said in a statement on Thursday.
A total of 14 stranding cases were linked to human activities, with six cases directly caused by them.
'Cetaceans were found to be entangled in ropes, affected by trauma from boat strikes, suffered from infections such as pneumonia, parasites and bacteria, or affected by other internal conditions,' the OPCFHK said.
One example cited in the report was two Chinese white dolphin carcasses – an adult female and a stillborn neonate – that were found near Pui O, Lantau, in July 2024.
'Necropsy findings of the adult dolphin demonstrated bruising and haematoma, which suggested potential blunt force trauma indicative of possible boat strike,' the NGO said.
The report also mentioned a case of a male adult Longman's beaked whale found stranded on a beach near Shek Tsai Po, Lantau, on November 30, 2024.
Despite rescue efforts, the whale died. A preliminary necropsy found a synthetic bag inside its stomach, while the cause of death still awaits further examination, the report said.
'Cetaceans play a crucial role in maintaining the health and balance of marine ecosystems,' said Paulo Pong, chair of the OPCFHK and Ocean Park Corporation.
'Understanding factors such as the causes of injury and death, feeding habits, pollutant exposure and genetic relationships will enable us to formulate more effective solutions and responses for the survival of cetaceans in Hong Kong waters.'
The OPCFHK urges members of the public to adopt a plastic-free lifestyle and not litter, especially in the sea or on beaches. It also asks people who watch dolphins not to harass or touch them.
In July 2023, a whale died with a cut on its back, possibly caused by a propeller after its appearance attracted many people who hoped to see the animal for themselves, with boats offering rides to approach it.
The OPCHK has been working with the AFCD to handle marine life strandings in Hong Kong since 2006.
More than 650 cetacean strandings have been handled in Hong Kong over the past 19 years, with between 20 and 50 cases reported each year.
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